Does social media bring out the worst in people or are people simply terrible to begin with?

it certainly hasn't improved people's behavior

We all have a "dark side"....we all have the capacity and potential to be "mean and nasty" or even just plain "evil", no living person is exempt. However most people also have the ability to control, resist. and even reject such urges so in that sense people are generally "good". There are some who cannot and some even choose not to. The internet is just another means for them to operate with more freedom and anonymity, social media is for them a paradise and playground. It's sad and a shame but it's true.

I think people are equal parts good and bad. Social media does seem to allow some to express the worst of themselves though.

I believe most people aren't emotionally mature enough to use social media in a healthy way. I'm guilty of it too; I have to avoid social media or else I could have a breakdown. Social media is way ahead of it's time.

Good question! Since I don't have a lot of faith in humans, I'm gonna say.. both.

Some people (not all, obviously) take advantage of the anonymity to be rude and nasty to others.

People are just assholes; this social media bullshit just peels back the veneer.