Introduction
Internet is a remarkable technological advancement providing essential opportunities that can be employed in different sectors, including education, entertainment, communication, health care and socialization among others. In Western countries, the Internet is believed to have improved various aspects of society along with the foregoing perspectives.
Information resources
The Internet has guaranteed easy access to information because it has a well-organized and efficient database with diverse information on different issues. It is a virtual storage of data and facts from which details on any issue can be accessed, which include educational journal articles, trade exhibitions, government services, technical support and market information, just to mention but a few. With the search engines such as Yahoo, Google, and Ask, information can be retrieved easily by typing a single word, search query or a short phrase. Individuals can obtain a customized search that provides the most relevant information that suits their needs. This has facilitated learning in Western society. Students can conduct researches through the Internet and gather important information required in their studies. On the other hand, tutors use the Internet to access and obtain valuable information. Furthermore, Western society’s literacy level has been elevated by the internet. Information provided on the Internet expose individuals to various issues thus, advancing their understanding of various subjects of importance. Distance learning and online education have been realized, which have significantly influenced learning as well as knowledge creation (Leung, 2010).
Communication
Internet presents the fastest, most efficient channel of communication. People can communicate online through instant messages and emails. They can communicate within a split second with individuals in far distances, which was impossible before the invention of the Internet. They can participate in interactive as well as personal communication through video conferencing and chat services. Internet-based discussion forums, blogging and social networking sites provide platforms for individuals’ expression. Establishing a global friendship has turned out to be an easy undertaking that has enabled sharing of political, cultural as well as religious beliefs. Further, people located in different areas can team up via the Internet. Additionally, they can share information, views, and professionals can work together from their remote locations. As Internet technology advances, Western society will continuously obtain superior benefits (Kraut, 2006).
Entertainment
Western society enjoys Internet-based entertainment. The versatile entertainment industry is integrated into the Internet, and individuals have unlimited access to free streaming media. Multimedia facilities and applications used along with the Internet have proved to be essential modes of entertainment. People can download movies, music and games or directly access them on their host websites. They can access information about the entertainment industry such as celebrities’ activities and performances as they occur through real-time streaming. In addition, promotional, educational and informative information is embedded in the entertainment channels. Thus, a particular Internet-based channel of entertainment serves several functions for Western society (Kraut, 2006).
Socialization
Socialization has become easy with the innovation of the Internet. Social networks such as Twitter and Facebook have significantly enhanced individuals’ interactions, especially amongst youth. It is possible to connect with many people through these media, which is almost impossible, and time-consuming in physical networking. In this sense, the Internet is an essential medium for bringing people with similar interests together. It also assists people to find and create friends, look for business as well as employment opportunities. Other aspects of socialization that the Internet aids include sharing of beliefs and customs between individuals of different cultural, political and religious backgrounds (Kraut, 2006).
Online Shopping
Life in Western societies is incredibly convenient owing to the use of the Internet in various aspects. Numerous Internet-based services allow individuals to perform various transactions online. They can transfer funds, book movie tickets, forfeit taxes, utility bills and pay for other services or products at the comfort of their homes. The Internet provides an appropriate procurement channel that reduces the time and effort used in transactions. It usually supports the pre-purchasing phase of the procurement process. Several benefits accrue both to the provider and the customer from the Internet’s use as a means of purchasing products and services. The Internet has facilitated supply chain improvements, cost reductions, enhanced customer relations or service and has reduced transaction costs in the Western countries. As a result, individuals have access to an extensive collection of services and products in which they can shop from any place and at any time. Besides, the Internet provides an array of customized services and ensures that instant information on products or services is readily available. Although there are concerns that information security and privacy impede purchases via the internet, most people in Western society rely on websites for online shopping or marketing. In general, Internet has actualized the concept of e-commerce in Western countries (Izquierdo-Yusta, 2011).
Conclusion
The internet has proved its worth in Western societies through the enhancement of communication, entertainment, socialization, online shopping and information resources. As indicated in the foregoing discussion, Internet has improved society’s well-being in different aspects.
Reference List
- Izquierdo-Yusta, A. (2011). Understanding the Effect of Internet Convenience on Intention to Purchase via the Internet. Journal of Marketing Development & Competitiveness, 5 (4), 32-50.
- Kraut, R. E. (2006). Computers, phones, and the Internet: domesticating information technology. New York: Oxford University Press.
- Leung, L. (2010). Effects of Internet Connectedness and Information Literacy on Quality of Life. Social Indicators Research, 98 (2), 273-290.