The Internet...daily

Howard Rheingold's discussion of computer-linked communities, particularly the WELL, in The Virtual Community showed a more optimistic side of how the Internet can be used to connect with others and create new relationships. Rheingold describes the people he met and how they helped one another through illness and fund raising. However, he also mentions some of the darker aspects of the community such as Blair Newman, who was addicted to the WELL and eventually committed suicide for apparently various reasons.

Those are the two poles of the web. It would be difficult to say whether the effects of the Internet on everyday life are negative or positive, because it depends on the person and how they are using it. The Internet has a positive effect in that it democratizes information. Anyone who has access can retrieve information on just about anything they need to know. However, there are those who feel they cannot remove themselves from the Internet or feel the need to be malicious. It would probably be safe to say the majority of users fall in the middle.

Mark Poster's essay on Internet and the public sphere take a different point of view on the usefulness of the Web as a tool for democratic discussion. He criticizes it by challenging the meaning of "public" on the Web and states it may not be democratic forum for expression and discussion. However, the study, The Internet and Democratic Debate, from the Pew Center found Internet users do not search out political messages or new reports solely focused on their personal points of view. The Web maybe more democratic than some are willing to give it credit for.

The Internet has proven to be a great tool for politicians as we have seen so far this election season. YouTube has helped popularize videos from political fanatics who otherwise would not have their voices heard or their issues addressed. Blogging has left no news unturned or embarrassing moments unremarked.

The Internet has changed the way we communicate with one another and how we spread information. Whether it is negative or positive is up to the user. However, I would contend arguments saying communication has been negatively affected by the Internet may not know how to use the technology.