Internet Technology

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Internet Technology

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     Society has become dependent on technology in almost every aspect of our daily lives. Technology has changed the meaning of life by helping us to overcome an assortment of daily struggles.  Almost every activity we participate in is more simplified than it was thousands of years ago. One of the most overwhelming impacts upon American life has been the home computer and the Internet. The Internet is a massive network that connects millions of computers around the world. This network was originally developed as an experiment by the United States Defense Department and only used by a handful of individuals in private sector communities. However, a recent report indicates that we are now “a society in which two-thirds of Americans have access to online technology and use it extensively without sacrificing their personal or social lives” (Digital Future, 2001, p.14). Today, the Internet has become an essential part of life on which many people have become dependent.

     Before the Internet, people were forced to leave their homes and spend time when performing daily tasks such as banking, paying bills, and shopping. Today these errands can be completed without even leaving the comfort of one’s home. Online banking allows people to control their personal finances any time of the day. The combination of online banking and online bill paying has practically eliminated late payments. Shopping online allows consumers to choose from a wider variety of merchandise that stores may be unable to physically display. There is also the bonus of not having to deal with finding a parking place, crowds, and long lines. Even dinner and groceries can be ordered online and delivered door to door. While these conveniences may appeal to many members of society, they are almost a necessity for the handicapped, who often wish to accomplish these chores on their own and retain a sense of self-esteem.

     The Internet has made it possible for families and friends who are separated by distance to remain close and stay in contact with one another. An email takes mere seconds to reach loved ones compared to using the postal service. In addition there is the bonus of not having to pay for postage, which continues to become more expensive. Even email itself has evolved, allowing people to attach pictures and even short movies to share with others. It has never been easier to instantly contact someone else anywhere in the world. The Internet is even used to make reservations for hotels and airlines, which once required phone calls. It has also been used to meet new people from through the use of social networking websites, online dating services, and support forums.

     The Internet is probably best known for the ability to share and access information. In the past, people were only able to receive news from their local papers and eventually cable news shows. Using the Internet, it is now possible to access local papers in different cities, states, and even foreign countries. The Internet is often used for research since it is more convenient than driving to a public library and its capabilities are endless. The Internet provides many opinions which can influence and improve cultural awareness and diversity. However, it is possible that not all the information on the Internet is reliable; everyone needs to be aware that along with fact there are also a number of hoaxes, money schemes, and myths. “Internet websites offering quick money, instant weight loss, and Nostradamus’s predictions sit alongside of websites providing legitimate health information, historic facts, and online stock trading” (Sterk, Introduction section, ¶ 4).

     While society boasts many and varying reasons for using the Internet, most of them can be applied to three basic principles:  it makes the world a smaller place; it brings people closer together; and it makes life simpler. As technology continues to move forward, the Internet will probably increase its capabilities and improve its performance. It will eventually become an even more efficient and effective tool that can be used easily by many. Though the Internet is a powerful tool, it is still in its early stages of development. It is the responsibility of all Internet users to shape its growth and progress (Draper, 1995, The Internet in the Future, ¶ 2).

References

Draper, Mark (1995). Beyond cyberspace. Vital Speeches of the Day, 61(23), 726 – 734.  Retrieved December 13, 2008, from ABI/INFORM Global database.

Sterk, W. (n.d.). The Impact of the Internet. Retrieved December 13, 2008, from http://www.lavc.edu/internet/introduction.html

Surveying the digital future. (2001). Science and Children, 38(4), 14-15.  Retrieved December 13, 2008, from Research Library database.

 

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