Social Media for Social Good: Gopi Kallayil at TEDxSanLuisObispo

Summary

In this thought-provoking talk, the speaker introduces the concept of the smartphone as the '79th organ' of the human body, emphasizing its profound role in connecting people globally. Through stories from diverse communities, including a rice farming village in India, a farmer in Kenya, and a virtual photography community, the speaker illustrates how technology fosters connection and knowledge-sharing. Highlighting the transformative power of social media, the speaker challenges the audience to consider how they can leverage these tools to build community and create social good, ultimately celebrating our shared humanity in an interconnected world.

Takeaways

• 📱 The smartphone is humorously introduced as the '79th organ' of the human body, highlighting its integral role in modern life.
• 🌍 Over 6 billion people globally have access to mobile devices, connecting individuals regardless of their geographical location.
• 🌾 Zach Mat from Kenya demonstrates the power of smartphones by sharing agricultural knowledge through a simple wooden notice board in his community.
• 📸 John Butell revolutionizes photography engagement by conducting virtual photo walks, allowing participants like Corey Fisk, who has multiple sclerosis, to join despite physical limitations.
• 🕊️ The Dalai Lama's ability to connect with Archbishop Desmond Tutu via social media illustrates how technology can transcend geographical and political barriers.
• 🤝 Communities thrive on connections, and technology enhances these connections to foster social good.
• 🌱 The sharing of knowledge and experiences can lead to innovative solutions to local problems, as shown by Zach's initiative in Kenya.
• 🖥️ Virtual platforms allow individuals with physical constraints to experience community activities and engage with others.
• 💬 The speaker encourages the audience to reflect on their use of social media and how they can contribute to community-building.
• ✨ The overall message emphasizes the evolution of community through technology, prompting individuals to consider their roles in fostering social good.

Q & A

What does the speaker refer to as the '79th organ' in the human body?

The speaker refers to the smartphone as the '79th organ,' emphasizing its integral role in modern life and communication.

How many people globally have access to mobile devices according to the speaker?

The speaker states that 6 billion out of 7 billion people have access to some sort of mobile device, making it the most pervasive technology in human history.

What was the speaker's personal connection to Chitlinga, India?

Chitlinga is the speaker's hometown, where their grandparents were rice farmers, and the speaker has fond memories of visiting the village, which historically had very limited access to technology.

What innovative solution did Zach Mat develop in Soy, Kenya?

Zach Mat created a wooden notice board where he shares knowledge from his smartphone with his community, allowing others to access valuable information and solutions to problems.

How did John Butell help Corey Fisk participate in photography despite her condition?

John Butell connected his camera to social media, enabling Corey Fisk, who suffers from multiple sclerosis and cannot walk, to join him on virtual photo walks, allowing her to experience nature and photography from her home.

What significant event occurred involving the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu?

The Dalai Lama participated in a conversation via social media with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, showcasing how technology can bridge distances and facilitate important dialogues.

What does the speaker suggest about the relationship between technology and community?

The speaker suggests that technology, particularly social media, enables new forms of community building that were not possible before, fostering social good and connection among people.

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of community in human life?

The speaker emphasizes that human beings thrive on community, as it provides a fertile ground for creating social good and fulfilling our essential humanity.

What are the main themes presented in the speech?

The main themes include the impact of technology on communication, the importance of community in fostering social good, and specific examples of how individuals are using technology to solve problems and connect with others.

What final questions does the speaker leave the audience with?

The speaker encourages the audience to ponder how they will use social media, build community, and create social good in their own lives.