The power of social media is it forces necessary change.

The soft murmur of the café filled the space, mingling with the gentle sound of rain against the window. Jack sat across from Jeeny, his coffee cup in hand, staring out at the rain-soaked streets. Jeeny, sitting opposite him, appeared deep in thought, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her cup.

Host: After a brief moment of silence, Jeeny spoke, her voice thoughtful but with a hint of curiosity.

Jeeny: “I came across a quote from Erik Qualman today that made me think about the impact of social media. He said, ‘The power of social media is it forces necessary change.’ What do you think about that? Do you think social media really drives change, or does it just reflect it?”

Jack: He looked up, considering her question. “I think Qualman’s point is really interesting. Social media doesn’t just reflect change—it accelerates it. In a way, it forces people, companies, and even governments to adapt. Information spreads so quickly, and public opinion can shift in real time. When people demand change, social media gives them a platform to voice that demand loudly, and it can create pressure that’s hard to ignore.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. In the past, movements and social change took a lot longer to gain momentum. But now, a hashtag or viral post can bring attention to an issue almost instantly. It forces people to take notice, and often, it forces action. The pressure to respond is much greater because of the reach and visibility social media provides. It can’t be ignored.”

Host: The rain outside had softened, and the conversation between them seemed to deepen. Jack shifted slightly, his fingers still resting on his coffee cup as he continued.

Jack: “That’s what’s so powerful about social media—it’s not just a tool for connection, it’s a tool for accountability. When people see injustice or something they want to change, they don’t have to wait for a movement to be organized by someone else. They can start the conversation themselves, and it has the potential to spread rapidly. Of course, there are also downsides, like misinformation or echo chambers, but the upside is undeniable. It can bring about change that might otherwise be impossible.”

Jeeny: “Yes, and it’s not just about spreading information—it’s about creating communities of people who feel the same way, who can support each other and drive the conversation forward. Social media gives people the power to connect and build momentum in a way that wasn’t possible before. It can empower individuals, and that’s a huge shift.”

Host: The conversation seemed to flow with a new energy, as both Jack and Jeeny reflected on the evolving role of social media in society. Jack set his cup down gently, his expression thoughtful.

Jack: “It’s amazing, really, when you think about how much power we all have in our hands now. Social media has completely changed the way we interact with the world. It’s democratized communication, but it’s also democratized the ability to demand change. Everyone has a voice, and that voice can be amplified beyond anything we could’ve imagined a few decades ago.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. And that’s why social media is so powerful—it gives every individual the chance to be part of a larger conversation. Whether you’re advocating for social justice, environmental change, or any number of causes, you can find a community and make your voice heard. In that sense, social media doesn’t just reflect the world—it can actively shape it.”

Host: The rain had stopped completely now, leaving only the faintest hum of the café around them. Jack and Jeeny sat, each reflecting on the power of social media not only as a tool for connection but also as a force for change. Qualman’s words reminded them that while social media has its challenges, it also forces necessary change, driving conversations and actions that were once much harder to ignite. It’s a tool that both reflects and shapes the world, connecting people and holding institutions accountable in ways that were never possible before.