Since the introduction of social networks a few years ago, social sites have gained popularity and, millions of people from all parts of the world use them on a daily basis ( Henslin, 2009). In fact, most people have made social networking part of their life and daily practice. Research shows that there are hundreds of social networks globally with different technologies to support various interests of the users. However, all social sites have a common phenomenon in that they facilitate social correlation among the users. Currently, social networks are being used in marketing and they have been integrated with communication tools such as mobile phones ( Henslin, 2009).
Social networks can therefore be defined as networks of individuals that are linked by web-based services ( Henslin, 2009). However, there are several definitions for social networks that try to explain what they do. According to these definitions, social networks enable members to develop their profiles within the social network’s site system and let the public or the restricted members see it. Additionally, members of a certain social network are able to see the list of their friends and other members with whom they share a common connection. Members are also able to go through the site’s system, communicate with their friends, and even make new ones. Although the nature of connections may differ from one site to another, all social network sites aim at creating a web-based community of people with similar interests (Henslin, 2009).
Social networks allow people to meet strangers that they could have never met before and establish social relationships. It is through such networks that members sharing various connections exchange information and experiences. Some of the major social network sites include Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and MySpace ( Henslin, 2009). These sites have different systems that enable members to control the information available to the public and their selected connections. However, it is worth noting that some of the social networks control information exchanged depending on its sensitivity and connections shared by members ( Henslin, 2009).
Social networks have been interpreted by modern sociologists from both conflict and functional perspectives. According to a functional perspective, social networks are good and have contributed to unity and easy communication among individuals with common interests ( Henslin, 2009). Social networks have enabled strangers from different parts of the world to share information and experiences from their countries thereby encouraging global understanding and social harmony. From a functional point of view, social networks have brought unity among different people and have eased communication since people do not pay to join social networks and share information. Additionally, social network usage has been diversified and they are used as marketing platforms and mediums of communication ( Henslin, 2009).
On the other hand, from the perspective of conflict theory, social networks are seen as a social evil that brings harm to society ( Henslin, 2009). Unethical information has been exchanged through social networks and in many parts of the world. They have been used to spread hate information resulting in wars and loss of property ( Henslin, 2009). Many people have been bullied in social networks and others have been created by people with whom they share connections. However, I believe that the functional theory interprets social networks better than the conflict theory since most of the challenges associated with social networks can be overcome.
Reference
Henslin, M. J., (2009), Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach, Nairobi, Kenya: Pearson College Division.