Microblog celebrities bear responsibility of fame
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Although Jin Yong may be amused by the whole situation, rather than being angry, it reveals fundamental problems with the system.
Mark Twain famously wrote, "Reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated." But with the Internet and microblogging, they can spread with unprecedented speed.
To some extent, the significance of this incident is that it provides an opportunity to intensify the understanding of microblogging, inspiring us to consider the proper way to use and administrate microblogging.
Some might comment that the very speed of correction shows that microblogging is a superior medium to traditional media in this regard. But the problem is that it can also spread false information with equal speed, and that the lack of controls and rapid dissemination of what may be untrue stories gives it a viral power that traditional media lacks.
The microblog celebrities, especially those whose followers rival the readership of traditional media, will need to rethink the impact of information they release or forward online. Although they may not have to resign as the magazine editors did, they will risk losing their public credibility or being sued for libel.
The rule here is simple: The more power you have, the bigger a responsibility you have to shoulder.
As for the majority of netizens, their media literacy plays a pivotal role. They should deal with the information in a sober and rational manner.
In addition, sound regulations on the use of microblogging should be set up and be improved, which will be conducive to reduce and prevent improper actions in the long run. Such rules are by no means censorship. The purpose of setting rules is to protect the freedom of speech, to keep the openness of microblogging so as to create healthy online environment.
Microblogging is a double-edged sword, and the key issue is how to use it in an appropriate way.
The author is an associate professor of journalism at the Communication University of China. zhangyuqiang@cuc. edu.cn
