Maneuvering Cyberspace

“The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn't said.[i] Like their parents and grandparents, young people are taking notice of how social networking is impacting their lives for good and bad. Most agree it is a useful tool to keep in touch with friends and family and to communicate important and timely messages…”[ii] Some disadvantages are as follows: 

1. Lacks Emotional Connection

2. Gives People a License to be Hurtful

3. Decreases Face-to-Face Communication Skills

4. Conveys Inauthentic Expression of Feelings

5. Diminishes Understanding and Thoughtfulness

6. Causes Face-to-Face Interactions to Feel Disconnected

7. Facilitates Laziness

 8. Creates a Skewed Self-Image

9. Reduces Family Closeness

10. Causes Distractions

 For me, the advantages of the Internet outweigh the negative:

1.  Breaks the Ice with New Relationships

2.  Allows you Keep in Touch will People Far Away
 

3.  Provides a Way to Look your Best 

 

4.  Delivers Instant Notification of Important Events 

5.  Helps Build Friendships 

6.  Accesses Diversity of Opinion 

7.  Increases Perspective and Discovery of New Interests 

8.  Relieves Stress  

9.  Improves spelling  

10. Disseminates Timely News from Around the World.

“The Internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow.[iii] Information flow is what the Internet is about. Information sharing is power. If you don't share your ideas, smart people can't do anything about them, and you'll remain anonymous and powerless.”[iv]

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[i] Quote by Peter Drucker

[ii] The term “cyberspace” refers to the realm of electronic communication. (Google Answers) Adapted from the articles, “Disadvantages of Social Networking: Surprising Insights from Teens,” “Millennials Reflect on Social Networking: Teens Question How Social Media Affects Relationships,”  which are both by Marilyn Price-Mitchell, PhD. Topic suggested by Gracie White.

 

[iii] Quote by Bill Gates

[iv] Quote by Vint Cerf