ARE SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES ANTI-SOCIAL LIFE?

“It has become exceedingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity.” – Albert Einstein

Do you know anyone who hasn’t been toggled in social networking sites? Whether it be through cell phones, computers, or laptops, many people these days find themselves engaged in at least one or two of those famous networking sites. According to studies conducted by Pew Research Center, 69% of online adults use social networking sites of which 75% are women, 92% come from young adults aged 18-29 followed by those at the age of 30-49 by 73%. Most users come from those who had gone to college and of those households whose income is $75,000+ and less than $30,000/year, 75% and 74% respectively, are into social networking.

(source : http://pewinternet.org/Commentary/2012/March/Pew-Internet-Social-Networking-full-detail.aspx)

        It is human’s nature to look for ways to connect with others with the same interests and experiences.  Therefore, social networking site is just another tool that humans are engaged with and find interesting to share to others.  

Some of the advantages of Social Networking Sites are the following :

1.       Connecting people that are miles apart.

2.       Socializing, sharing of ideas, and developing of vocabulary.

3.       Some people find it easier to express their thoughts through writing.

4.       Beneficial for businesses’ marketing and advertisements.

5.       Fast dissemination of information and events.

6.       Providing a wide range of information and educational tools for users.

However, as there can be advantages, it has already been proven that social networking sites can also inflict several disadvantages as follows :

1.       May cause psychological disorders and addiction

2.       Feeling of anonymity because everything is done in the screen, may encourage excessive sharing of thoughts that can be detrimental to one’s safety and privacy.

3.       Reduced physical interaction with loved ones and friends.

4.       Less physical activity/sedentary lifestyle is not good to our health.

5.       Use of social media undermines people’s use of social skills and their ability to read body language.

Just like most things in this world, social networking sites can be a double edged sword. And anything in excess can be harmful. So better use them wisely.