• Valarmathi Subramaniam
• Dr. P. Pallavan

ABSTRACT Social media’s pervasive nature stems from its accessibility to individuals across all social strata. This widespread reach is analogous to the influence of mass media. However, a critical distinction lies in their structural frameworks: mass media operates within established regulatory and control mechanisms, whereas social media lacks such formal constraints. This inherent difference positions social media as a double edged-sword. While it has undeniably democratized information dissemination and empowered marginalized voices, its unregulated nature poses potential societal risks. While the impact of mass media has been studied for a century, the effect of emerging social media platforms, often referred as “people’s media”, require thorough investigation. The dissemination of false, misleading, and inaccurate information is inherent to these platforms. Their widespread poses potential threat to social harmony, highlighting the dual nature of social media making is a double edged sword. News reports frequently illustrate how such information can lead to social unrest and disrupt peace. Consequently, extensive research into the societal impact of social media is imperative. Although a plethora of research articles and related information exists, a comprehensive review of these resources is necessary to consolidate the understanding. To address this knowledge gap, this review paper undertakes a critical analysis of existing research on the impact of social media in the Indian context. This review paper undertakes a critical analysis of seventeen doctoral dissertations from Indian universities that were published up to December 2024.

Social Media, Political Discourse, Youth Behavior, Civic Engagement, New Media and India, Impact of Social Media, and Thesis Review

"Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword - A Review Paper Examining the Impact of Social Media on Society ", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 6, page no.f170-f184, June-2025, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2506521.pdf

"Social Media: A Double-Edged Sword - A Review Paper Examining the Impact of Social Media on Society ", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.12, Issue 6, page no. ppf170-f184, June-2025, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2506521.pdf