Mark Zuckerberg announced that Meta-owned social media platforms will end third-party fact-checking, replacing it with community notes similar to those used on Elon Musk’s X. Zuckerberg admitted to “too many mistakes and too much censorship” in an Instagram post early last week. Meta also pledged a $1 million donation to the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump on Jan. 20. 

Zuckerberg had previously come under fire for the way Facebook may have tampered with election results during the last few election cycles, whether through facilitating the spread of misinformation or suppressing conservative viewpoints. 

A cynic might say Zuckerberg is just another billionaire trying to ally with power. This, however, could also be a change that reflects the ideal spirit of 2025. It’s a reminder that just because things have been a certain way does not mean they always have to be done that way. This year we should all demonstrate this same spirit of flexibility and intellectual humility.

This can be toward the media, political happenings and alliances, and even unlikely friendships and teams. Some things are just true, and some beliefs can be held fast. But it is okay to update your beliefs with new information and experiences, even in the middle of the school year.