How the Internet is Changing the Way We Interact with Each Other
Whether we’d like to admit it or not, the internet plays an integral role in nearly every aspect of our lives today. From how we shop and bank, to how we build relationships and engage with our friends and family, the internet has a significant hand in all of it. The internet has allowed us to connect with people all around the world in ways never dreamed of before its existence, and this massive societal shift has forced us to examine our relationships with one another — both in a positive and a negative light.
In the following article, we’ll break down how the internet is changing the way we interact with each other and the implications this has on our daily lives. From breaking down physical barriers between communities to introducing a whole host of potential cyber security threats, this article will attempt to unpack the personal, professional and societal impacts of the internet age.
Breaking Down Physical Barriers
Before the internet, individuals from different countries, states and provinces were physically unable to interact with each other on a personal level. Now, with the power of social media and online messaging platforms, we’re able to talk openly and frequently with people from all around the world. It’s amazing to think that someone in Zimbabwe can now exchange ideas with a person in India, or that families in Australia can keep up with relatives in Canada in real time.
In his book, “A World Without Walls”, author Michael German discusses how the internet has allowed us to break down physical barriers that were once impossible to pass:
“The internet has opened up the possibility of global conversations between individuals. It has allowed us to bridge social, cultural and political divides that were almost insurmountable in past generations.”
Simply put, the internet has allowed us to blur physical boundaries that once separated us from one another, often for political reasons. Now, with the click of a button, we can instantaneously chat with individuals on the other side of the world and exchange ideas freely without obstruction.
Creating a New “Normal”
Unsurprisingly, the internet has created an entirely new “normal” when it comes to how we interact with each other. While some may see this as a positive development, there are some drawbacks associated. For example, the “always-on” nature of the internet has drastically changed our expectations of each other. In a world where communication is instant, people now expect a quick response to their messages. There are high expectations associated with immediate responses, and if these expectations are not met, it could lead to a breakdown in relationships.
These changes in expectations can also lead to an “always-on” mentality when interacting with each other. There’s an expectation that you’re available for contact at all times, regardless of what else is going on in your life. This places an immense burden on individuals to constantly be at the beck and call of others, and can lead to loneliness and burnout if we’re not careful.
That being said, the internet has also enabled us to form deeper relationships with one another. As author Mike Greer explains:
“The internet has revolutionized the way we interact with each other. We can now build strong, meaningful relationships that go beyond geography and time.”
We can now form close connections with people that we’ve never even met in real life, relying on letters and emails to build relationships instead of the traditional face-to-face interactions of the past. These relationships are often much more meaningful than traditional relationships, as they provide us with an easier and faster way to communicate our thoughts and feelings.
Opening the Door to Cyber Security Threats
Although the internet has enabled us to form meaningful relationships with one another, it has also opened up a potential avenue for cyber security threats. With the rise of social media networks and online messaging platforms, users are now exposed to cyber scammers and hackers who are looking to exploit their personal information.
Furthermore, online communication can often lead to misunderstandings. Many people take more risks when communicating online, assuming that their words will not be taken literally when in reality, even the slightest miscommunication can lead to a breakdown in the relationship.
These cyber security threats can be especially harmful when mixed with issues related to digital etiquette. Digital etiquette is a set of protocols that should be followed when communicating with one another online. As author Liz Blomfield writes:
“Everything we do or say online can have repercussions in real life. It’s important to practice good digital etiquette in order to protect yourself and build strong relationships with the people you interact with online.”
By taking the time to learn the etiquette associated with online communication, individuals can protect themselves from potential cyber security threats and create positive, healthy relationships with one another.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, we must never forget that the internet is a double-edged sword. Although it enables us to bridge physical barriers between communities and form meaningful relationships with one another, it also opens us up to a whole host of cyber security threats. That’s why it’s so important to practice good digital etiquette and stay informed about the potential dangers of the internet.
By taking the time to educate ourselves on how the internet affects our relationships with one another and how to protect ourselves from potential cyber security threats, we can use the internet as a powerful tool to connect with the people we care about in a safe and effective manner.
