I really like the “social network” versus “social media” distinction pointed out here.

#Mastodon, to me, feels like a network. I follow people that seem interesting, often following back people who have followed me.

If they happen to post “media“ that seems interesting, I may choose to experience it, or not. Either way it’s a secondary effect of the network.

Other platforms that are ad-driven and algorithmic feel very different. https://jaz.co.uk/2025/10/30/there-is-one-fediverse-there-are-a-million-pickleball-courts/