If I had the power to ban one social media platform forever, without a second thought, I would choose TikTok. Years ago, my answer might have been Twitter, because back then, Twitter was known for arguments, dragging, and endless negativity. But now, with the rise of TikTok, things have changed completely. TikTok has become a place where the dark side of social media truly shows the place where people’s hearts are exposed, and sadly, not in a good way.
At first, TikTok seemed fun and harmless. Short videos, creative dances, jokes, and stories it looked like a way to connect people around the world. It gave many individuals a platform to show their talent and creativity. It even created opportunities for people who probably never imagined they could be seen or heard. But as time went on, TikTok began to reveal another side a side filled with toxicity, bullying, and cruelty that seems to grow worse every day.
What makes TikTok especially dangerous is how easy it is for people to hide behind screens and pour out pure hate. People say anything, without thinking of the pain their words might cause. I once came across a video of a mother who posted her child with a disability. Instead of showing love and kindness, someone commented that she should “go and kill the child because the child is useless.” Imagine the kind of heart that can say such a thing! TikTok has become a mirror that reflects how wicked and insensitive people can be when they think no one will hold them accountable.
Another problem is how TikTok gives everyone a stage to become a “teacher.” Many people now set up cameras just to speak nonsense or mislead others, calling it “content.” Some of them spread wrong information about life, relationships, health, and even religion and because the platform is so addictive, many people just believe what they see without thinking deeply. It’s sad how quickly foolishness spreads when it’s wrapped in entertainment.
TikTok has also become a place where people chase attention more than purpose. Some create harmful or embarrassing content just to go viral. They insult others, destroy property, fake pranks, and even endanger themselves all in the name of getting likes and followers. This desire for clout is slowly eating away the values that make us human. People no longer think about what is right or wrong; they just think about what will trend.
Of course, it would be unfair to say TikTok is all bad. There are still people who use it positively to teach skills, share inspiring stories, promote small businesses, and bring smiles to others. But the sad truth is that the negative side now overshadows the good. The hate, bullying, and fake lifestyles are too loud to ignore. For every video that motivates, there are ten others that break someone’s confidence or spread toxicity.
If TikTok were banned today, I believe the world would not fall apart. In fact, it might even become a little calmer. People would have one less reason to compare their lives to unrealistic videos. Teenagers might stop trying to copy dangerous trends just to feel noticed. Parents might feel less pressured, and the internet might become a safer place again. Life existed before TikTok, and it was more peaceful. Life will still exist after TikTok, and perhaps, we will all be a little kinder.
I think social media should connect people, not destroy their peace. But TikTok has become the opposite a platform that entertains while silently harming mental health and promoting hate. So, if I had the power to ban one social media platform for life, I would not hesitate. It would be TikTok, not because I hate entertainment, but because I love peace and I truly believe the world would be a better place without it.