Dear Mad Man: Do the rules of etiquette apply to the new social media?

Dear Mad Man,

I have enjoyed the rise of social media over the last few years, and I love being able to easily connect with family and friends.  I also enjoy sharing articles, photos, and funny quotes with my friends as well as viewing my friends posts.  Recently though, I have noticed a disturbing trend while reading the social media sites.  Political and religious opinions seem to dominate my newsfeed.  I always thought that politics and religion were off limits in social circles.  Have the rules changed with the new media?

Sincerely,

Politically private

Dear Politically private,

Thanks for writing.  I was in the middle of watching Kony 2012 while eating a Chik-fil-a sandwich (Don't worry. I didn't swallow) when I saw your letter.  I too have noticed the trend of which you speak; although, I am torn as to what I should make of it.  On one hand, the rules of politeness and etiquette should surely apply in electronic social interaction just as in the old fashioned kind.  On the other, being exposed to diverse opinion and rhetoric is never a bad thing.  After all, we could alter our position after a thoughtful discussion of the merits of the opposing viewpoints...right?

From Drop Box

Rather than either advocating cage-match style tweeting or throwing the baby out with the bath water, I propose a compromise ala Rodney King.  To wit, I have developed a set of rules, nay, a code of coduct that, if followed, will ensure a healthy dose of expression without the crude aftertaste.

Be thoughtful

Normally I am not one to advocate tempering of words.  My ramblings do come with a disclosure, and I have been known to offend my fair share.  Thinking about how your message will be received and whether it achieves the desired effect will help win friends and influence people.

Be positive

You have an opinion.  We get it.  Expressing it in a positive way encourages others to consider its merits, while also keeping you looking classy.

Bring something to the table

If all you can post is a trite one-liner affirming your adherance to or abhorance of a particular issue, maybe you (and others) would be better served by not posting at all.  Instead try posting a link to an article discussing a particular nuance of the issue that you think others might find interesting.

Listen to your mother

You know she is always right (except for her views on stem-cell research.  I mean how backward can she be?)  When a friend posts something that you think is patently absurd, follow her advice.  If you don't have anything nice to say it is almost always better to say nothing at all.