Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

Newport begins this chapter discussing the experiment conducted by author Baratunde Thurston to totally abstain from social media and online activity for 25 days. Thurston reflected on his experience and generally found it positive. Newport uses this anecdote to launch into a discussion on the usefulness of social media and other forms of infotainment common on the internet. He is quick to point out that while he himself abstains from Facebook and other social media platforms, he does not believe that choosing whether to be active on social media or not is an all-or-nothing proposition. He insists that he is arguing for a smarter, more nuanced approach to using social media and the Internet in general.

Ultimately, Newport argues that social media is neither good or evil; instead, one should recognize both the pros and cons of using it and make decisions about their own use accordingly. He encourages people to find a “middle ground” (184).

Newport questions what he calls the “Any-Benefit Approach to Network Tool Selection” (186). He argues that this outlook justifies social media usage simply because there is some value. Newport says that one must also accept that using social media is not risk-free: Social media platforms are made to be addictive, which can create problems for people trying to focus in their work.