Should Social Media Be Renamed Shareable Media?

Courtesy of BrandingEye.com

How would you define social media?  I think most people would use examples like Facebook and Twitter to describe platforms that allow users to engage each other.  Keyword – allow.  I would argue that in many cases these platforms are not social all the time; instead, they are places where users share.

Instead of social media, I like to use shareable media.

Why do I say shareable media?  How are you engaging with content and its creators? Users share with others more often than there is direct social interaction; e.g. it’s a “share” button on Facebook.  You RT someone on Twitter; you’re sharing, not socializing. You comment on a blog; that’s sharing your point-of-view or comment, not always creating a conversation since you may or may not get a response from the author.  You “like” something on Facebook; again, you’re sharing a “thumbs up” but not necessarily having a conversation with the poster. 

You, as a disseminator of content – original or not, are sharing with media platforms. You tweet; someone might see it but takes no action, reads it but doesn’t comment. You post a status update; someone will probably see it but may not comment.  In many cases, people will see content you share but not always engage/be social with you. That’s why I like shareable media versus social media.

Do you agree or disagree?  Share your comments below (and maybe I’ll be social). ;-)