Beneficial Internet Analysis

Is the internet beneficial to society? To you personally? What are the dangers? Do you believe it should be regulated, why/why not?

It’s a cliche to say it but since it was created, the internet is a blessing and a curse. It’s linked society in ways never thought possible but it’s created more and more lonely people. Yet despite it’s pitfalls, I believe the internet is ultimately beneficial to society. The connections the internet allows have changed the world and have jump-started our technological advancements faster than ever thought possible. It’s created a new economy and new types of media. These improvements brought to us by the internet are necessary for us as a society to grow and develop.

I personally know that the internet is beneficial to me. The first thing I do when I wake up is turn to my phone see what the day’s news is. The internet allows me to do my job and is helping me continue my education by going back school at Syracuse. The internet also keeps me connected to family, friends, and others. I remember life before the internet and while I am nostalgic about it, I do understand that I need the internet and it’s forever going to be in my life.

One of dangers of the internet is disinformation, like websites or fake stories created to mislead or trick readers. The rise of multi-level marketing schemes, anti-vaxxers, and even flat-earthers can all be attributed to the internet. The internet is also leading to a rise of hate groups as people with certain beliefs find it easier to connect and spread their message. Another danger is while the internet builds connections it can also leave people intensely isolated. FOMO and Photoshop is creating a generation of people who strive for perfect lives to post on Instagram. But it’s also wrapping their sense of self-worth.

The internet needs regulation. Not of the information on it, I believe the truth will always stand out, but of the companies that create the connections. Net Neutrality is a huge issue and we have not seen the full consequences of it being repealed yet.