"X" used to be called "Twitter." Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia, still calls it that (at least as of the date that I wrote this blog post).
I would not be surprised to learn that almost everyone reading this blog posting knows more about "X" than I do, and to the extent that this is true, that's just fine with me. I have never used "X." I have never signed up. I have never "followed" anyone on "X," and that means, the way I see it, that my chances of being misled and manipulated are somewhat less than those persons who do utilize this social networking program to "keep up with the news and the newsmakers."
Attentive readers will notice, I feel certain, that my headline today reverses a well-known phrase. That phrase, "'X' Marks The Spot," is "used to say that the letter "X," written on a piece of paper, a map, etc. shows where something is hidden or can be found." That's what the Cambridge Dictionary tells us. In other words. the owner of "X," who just happens to be the wealthiest person in the world, is attempting to say, by renaming "Twitter," that his social networking application, "X," is a place where the truth - or important information, at least - can and will be found.
The noun "Twitter," as I again consult the dictionary, is defined as follows: "light chattering." Let's face it, calling a social networking site "Twitter" conveys the impression that whatever is posted there is likely to have no great substance or importance.
You are catching on, I am sure, to the reason that the original "Twitter" is now called "X." The original "Twitter" was, actually, appropriately named. The name conveyed the kind of information you might find if you joined up - namely, "light chattering." "X" seems to suggest, to the contrary, that the postings there are of great significance and importance.
If you believe that Elon Musk's online "X" is where information of great significance is likely to be found, I think you're going to be fooled. All our social networking and social media programs are basically intended to gather information about us (not convey information to us). Then, once the "algorithm" knows all about us, "X" (and other such programs) will use the information the algorithm has gathered to manipulate us, usually by selling us something - but that "something" might well be a "worldview," or a "political perspective," as well as some product or service which the website promotes.
So, now you understand what I am trying to say with my reversal of that well-known phrase, "'X' marks the spot."
"X," the Elon Musk social networking program, is not directing you to the truth, or to something important. Instead, when you join up with "X," you are really just providing Mr. Musk with the information that will allow him, and those manipulating the program, to spot you as a "Mark." The dictionary defines "Mark" as "a victim or prospective victim of a swindle."
Think I might be right about that?
"X," and "Truth Social," and other such social media programs, are targeting you. If you're ok with that, keep on posting and following. Just know that you are the one who is really being followed - and not for any positive purpose, either!
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