Talk Human

Our topic for this meeting:
Cognitive dissonance in the age of social media: Is it OK sharing comfort while others suffer?

Have you ever felt uncomfortable posting about your daily comforts on social media while knowing that others in the world are experiencing deep suffering? This feeling—a tension between our values and actions—is known as cognitive dissonance, and it’s something many of us encounter in our lives.

Recently, after I posted a photo of my delicious lunch, I saw heartbreaking images from Gaza — people starving. The contrast was jarring. I felt guilt, discomfort, and I even questioned my morality.

Join us for a discussion focused on:

• Is it appropriate to share moments of joy and comfort online when we are aware of the hardships others face?
• How do we reconcile experiencing privilege and comfort with our empathy for those who are struggling?
• Does posting about our lives diminish our compassion, or can it coexist with meaningful awareness and action?
• What responsibilities, if any, do we have as individuals with privilege on social platforms?

This is not about shame or blame — but about exploring a complex, emotional topic that many of us quietly struggle with.
If you’ve ever hesitated before posting, felt uneasy about your own comfort, or wondered how to be present with both joy and sorrow — this space is for you.