How far is the distance between us?

How much is the distance between us? People say that technology was developed in order to make better communication. Am I right? But why is it like this? Yes, the internet enables me to communicate with other people from different places. The same goes for cellphones. I'm not saying that I'm against the development of technology. In fact, I love the stuff that I happen to have.

The issue that I have in mind is that sometimes, people spend too much of their time in the "virtual" world and neglect the things that really matters in the "real world".

Currently, the internet is now changing the concept of nation, the means to communicate with people and even your view of life.

  

Why is the Internet so addicting?

Two reasons:

1.    Information
2.    Freedom


People go online to get information (news, music, stock prices, etc). Logging onto the Internet is like a kid going to a toy store; there is so much to do and explore that once you get in, you never want to leave. People also go online because the Internet offers freedom to do whatever they want, to say whatever they want and to be whoever they want.

The Internet’s Positive Effects

1.    You can get the latest news on the web.
2.    You can download information – music, video, researchers, statistics, free software, etc.
3.    You can learn new things (language, how to do things – cooking, programming, designing, etc.).
4.    Internet is a good means to express yourself.
5.    Faster exchange of information through electronic mail, chat, forums, and social network sites.
6.    Online shopping.
7.    Purchase tickets – flights, theatrical plays, basketball games, etc.


When using the internet, do we look at its negative effects? Maybe we do, but not most of the time. And when we see it’s bad side, does it keep us from using it? I don’t think so. Here are some of the internet’s negative effects:

1.    Subversive materials posted on the web – pornography, violence, etc.

2.    Security and privacy – cracking.

3.    Virtually bringing people together yet physically pushing people away.

4.    Deceit.

“The brave new world of cyber-glop will be an increasingly lonely, isolated and dehumanized world. It will be a place where you can order anything you want online, but you don’t know your neighbors, where your children and your parents will spend evening hours logged into the Net, talking to distant strangers rather than each other.”

-- Clifford Stoll, author of Silicon Valley Snake Oil