In less than six months, this small pamphlet altered the course of American history. In Common Sense, Thomas Paine argued that it was absurd for an island to govern an entire continent. He declared that America could be free from war by being free from Britain. One of the most notable and influential arguments in the population of the colonies was that London was too far from the United States to govern it and that the King and Parliament legislated only for the benefit of Britain and not for the benefit of America.
Being a pamphlet of only forty pages, it was read aloud in halls and taverns and it is estimated that more than half the population heard it at least once. The argument was so eloquent that it influenced the vast majority of the population hesitant to support American independence.
Popular support was so widespread that it made it easier for delegates to the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia in July 1776 to declare independence.
I believe the answer is: Not been disseminated before unless noted otherwise.
This ethical perception exist to held the writers accountable for the validity of things that they wrote. Since it is an ethical standard, technically the writers would not face legal punishment as long as they made a dissemination when the things they wrote are proven to be wrong.
Social media gives access to communication between people all around the world. People may be afraid of reaction and hold back when giving feedback, meanwhile the feedback is more true to heart on social media, due to the lack of the fear of reaction.