Social media, as conceptualized by Nate Hagens, refers to the digital platforms and technologies that facilitate the creation, sharing, and consumption of information, ideas, and personal expressions within virtual communities and networks. Recognizing it as both a reflection and a driver of societal dynamics, Hagens would emphasize that social media operates as a double-edged sword; it accelerates human connectivity and amplifies collective intelligence while simultaneously exacerbating issues like misinformation, distraction, and socio-environmental dissonance. From Hagens' perspective, social media embodies the paradox of human advancement—offering unprecedented opportunities for global interaction and awareness, yet demanding critical navigation to mitigate its impact on mental well-being, social cohesion, and the sustainability of human societies.

See also: climate model, ecological economics, renewable energy, design principles