Humans wanted to make a better world, so they created the internet, but it turned out to make it even crazier. We are now in a new digital world where gossip spreads quicker than a flash, shaming is at the fingertips, and everyone can be a judge without a degree or qualifying test. People react to any post without stepping back and thinking twice, without exercising the benefit of the doubt.

• Is it the TRUTH?
• Is it FAIR to all concerned?
• Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
• Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

I remember these four questions posted on billboards along a few roads in Davao City, Philippines, where I’m from. I wonder if they are still there, if they are all over the Philippines, or if they are commonly known worldwide. With a little googling, I found out that this is the Four-Way Test, developed by Herbert J. Taylor in 1932, to serve as a guide for Rotarians in both their personal and professional lives.

I also wonder how different this new digital world would be if everyone answered these questions before reacting to any information we get through the World Wide Web, more specifically, to any intriguing post on social media sites.

These social media sites seem to be anti-social, don’t you think? They create a barrier between people at social gatherings, even in families. Instead of socializing and enjoying the company of those in front of us and all around us, most tend to “escape” the real world and dive into the invisible yet very influential and addictive world of social media, updating their timelines, scrolling, and commenting on any post that triggers their “senses.”

The digital world is always hungry for a trigger—something that awakens emotions, most notably anger. Ridicule awaits the victim. The word “viral” became prominent and means more than just how it was used in the medical world. It is more often used in the digital world when something makes everyone react.

The “creators” are taking advantage of it, creating content that will hopefully make everyone react, comment, and share. Becoming “viral” is sought after, utilizing even the weirdest, most unthinkable, or embarrassing ways. Just think of that lady who pees everywhere for her content, and those who show their private parts for a second. Some “digital consumers” are also very proud of having access to some people’s intimate private videos, posting hints of having seen them, and thus, attracting other hungry consumers to get it, devour it, and wear the title like a crown. The title says “I’ve seen it.” Pass it on. Pass it on.

Now, tell me, are we in a better world?

And here I am, part of it.