Global Networking

A global network is known as the worldwide exchange of communication and ideas. Basically in this global network culture most people have come to the realisation that the connection itself is more important than anything else and because of these new forms of connectivity, things are changing. By forming new identities to represent ourselves these new mediums are changing the way we see others but also it’s changing the way we see ourselves.

The idea of things going viral is an classic example of global networking as one idea, of one person throwing ice cold water on themselves to raise money and awareness for a disease like ALS; then leads to millions of people worldwide including celebrities to do the same thing, it has even led to animation producers to include our very own favorite character, Homer Simpson to join in:

Many people have studied global networks and have presented an array of opinions we have the optimistic perspectives and Kazys Varnelis is an advocate of this, as he essentially believes that global networks are rewarding because digitalization is improving the world’s economy and allowing new opportunities to arise because of these global connections.

In contrast to Varnelis’ optimistic perspective on global networking we have Geert Lovink who presents the world with his pessimistic view and all the downsides that have arisen due to the outbreak of global networking, and the media’s power over this. He points out the dangers that can occur from this, as he believes that the media can basically influence the way conduct ourselves.

It’s hard to say which category I completely fall under because to be honest they’re both right, there are positives and negatives that have arisen from global networking but isn’t that the same with anything? Won’t there always be positives and negatives to any major global movement? The truth of the matter is, whining about whether its good or bad won’t stop global networking from progressing. It’s growing and it’s growing at such a rapid rate that it’s hard to control. We should therefore embrace the new opportunities presented to us and hold onto our seats for the bumpy ride ahead.