Scholars, academics, and the general public have debated whether the internet unites or divides people for many years. On the one hand, the internet has completely changed how people connect and exchange knowledge. Technology has allowed individuals interact with their peers worldwide, overcome geographical obstacles, and create online communities based on shared experiences and interests (Staples). Conversely, isolation, detachment, and polarization can also come via the internet (CharstarleneTV). The internet has the power to unite people, it is up to them to utilize it to promote wholesome relationships and connections.
Being able to interact with others who share similar interests and ideals is one of the most convincing justifications for how well the internet can unite people. The internet has enabled them to locate and establish connections with others who share their interests anywhere globally, whether through social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, online forums and discussion groups, or blogs (CharstarleneTV). Without the internet, this would not have been able to establish solid and lasting relationships. For instance, residents of remote places might be able to interact with others who share their interests in a way that was not before conceivable (Staples). The ability to interact and work together in novel and creative ways is another way that the internet unites people. This is especially true in the context of remote employment and online learning.
Yet it is also critical to recognize how the internet may divide people and exacerbate feelings of loneliness and detachment. The phenomenon of social media echo chambers is one of the most recognized ways this occurs. People risk getting isolated from alternative viewpoints and ideas if they exclusively interact with people who agree with peers’ thoughts and beliefs. This may result in a feeling of tribalism and division, which may ultimately cause them to become even more acrimonious. The ubiquity of cyberbullying and online harassment is another way the internet can potentially drive a wedge between different individuals (Staples). People may behave hurtfully or aggressively online more frequently if they feel anonymous and unaffected by the results of their conduct. People may feel uneasy and cut off from other people due to this.
Works Cited
CharstarleneTV. “I Forgot My Phone.” YouTube, Web.
Staples, Brent. “Editorial Observer; What Adolescents Miss When We Let Them Grow Up in Cyberspace.” The New York Times, Web.