East x West: ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

By FICMAF 11:32 Blog Task

Topic: The negative impact of the Internet on society outweighs the positive impact of the Internet on society.

In the present globalized world, technology is a powerful tool and a necessity in life. Technology runs in the veins of society, playing an integral part of daily lives. The arrival of advanced technology developed world revolution and build a life of convenience. The Internet, especially, has brought ease and efficiency in life. However, a big question that still lies within the growth of modern technology is the impact of the Internet on society. With much speculation, this topic has become an intriguing argument. Based on several facts, we have concluded that the positive impact of the Internet on society outweighs the negative. The impact of the internet to society is positive in terms of the development of knowledge, social ability and marketing platform.

Among the many positive impact of the Internet in society is the development of knowledge. The internet is a literal library of knowledge, forming convenience to users of any age to gain millions of information at any given time of the day. The various search engines available on the Internet such as the primary usage of Google allows easy access to information at fingertips. In a quick click, anyone is able to learn, understand and absorb information within seconds. For many around the world, research materials are unaffordable. The availability of websites such as Wikipedia, Encyclopedia and online dictionaries on the Internet allows opportunities for underprivileged students to seek knowledge while saving a fortune as education materials are available online. Learning can also be made fun with the help of the Internet as there are plenty of sites offering different teaching techniques for students - be it games or quizzes. The variety in learning techniques allows students to choose personal preferences in order to ease and entertain the learning process. Unconsciously, the pressure of learning will be replaced with curiosity and determination, diminishing the stereotype belief of forced education. In addition, educators are able to plan lessons through the Internet with various learning sites. Padlet, Socrative and Kahoot are examples of learning sites allowing students to share documents, exchange ideas as well as improve teamwork skills. These tools present an opportunity for teachers and lectures to instill a sense of creativity and artistry within young minds to enhance general work. Moreover, students looking to contact friends or educators to assist a certain issue are able to do so via e-mail or social media whereas educators who wish to reach out to parents or guardian involving progress and participation can do so with the help of technology. Those looking for education but are unable to attend classes are welcomed to participate in various virtual online classes available for people of all ages. Once again, technology proves the efficiency of gaining knowledge at any given time of the day. The Internet has not only help facilitate learning, but has overcome obstacles of time. One no longer has to live a cramped learning schedule, instead, arrange and organize an appropriate timetable. The birth of social media such as Facebook and Twitter allows effective communication and interaction among users to share and spread knowledge. Phenomenal medical breakthrough is another knowledge development gained through technology. Health-related issues can be easily discovered and treated through a single click. Apart from that, the internet constantly provides easy access to current news within seconds. Generally, the endless possibility of gaining and receiving information from the Internet builds a society of wide knowledge. In similar context, the unlimited tutorials presented on the Internet enhance a society of independence. Knowledge development gained from the Internet also creates a less risky life. Machines build to perform difficult task beyond human capacity reduces life-threatening issues.

In addition, the Internet has become a form of social development among society. The Internet grants wireless communication within the community, making it effortless for people to connect with one another - be it across the globe or across the room. The rising era of technology has delivered endless possibilities in terms of communication. People are able to connect and discover one another with similar interests. Pen-pals are exchanged with virtual and actual meeting. Ultimately, the Internet creates a sense of communion which heightens bond among society. The largest impact and the most substantial basis of the Internet is certainly the birth of social media. Various social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, FaceTime, YouTube, Blogger, Vimeo, and LinkedIn are being used for very different reasons. For instance, Tumblr is a well known platform for users to stay connected with music, television shows, movies and even cartoon. On the flip side, social networks such as YouTube and Vimeo are attainable for people with a passion for filming and video creation. FaceTime, on the other hand, presents a glimpse of one's life. Holiday trips, baking skills, amusement and even epic failures are among the creative content on social networks. Facebook has also successfully reunited family members and friends. Thirty years down the road, the Internet still presents unlimited communication access, with higher and advanced technology. Social media has also saved people from spending an unnecessary amount of money to keep in touch with family and friends who have moved across the ocean. Skype has created the illusion a person is right in front of them, though not physically, with only a single requirement - internet connection. People of different backgrounds, locations and passions are able to communicate despite being miles apart. Moreover, the Internet has allowed people dealing with social anxiety to improve social skills. As aware, social anxiety is an unfortunate fear towards social situations. Approaching people may be physically and emotionally difficult due to the excessive and unreasonable fear of being observed, judged and criticized by strangers. However, the Internet has proven to help reduce social anxiety by allowing more time to learn and process communication skills. Introverts have the opportunity to express themselves with various forms of media platforms. In relation to companionship, the invention of dating applications allows a quick process and mutual agreement upon building a relationship. Deliberately, society develops a sense of bravery, confidence and passion in communication. In short, the Internet has definitely encouraged society’s social development.

Another positive impact of the Internet to society is the development of the marketing platform. Generally, the Internet is rich in entertainment. People of the current generation utilize the Internet for pleasure and relaxation. In addition to seek entertainment from applications such as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, these platforms act as a beneficial outlet for the business and advertising industry. Social networks ease promoting and publicising of companies to a larger audience within seconds. The Internet is bombarded with advertisements to improve brand recognition and reach out to possible customers. Online shopping is also made easier with the help of the Internet. Shopping through online websites and applications not only saves time and petrol, but is useful for consumers to research and review before purchasing. A brand will also reward in terms of revenue and endorsements by creating an online website. In fact, online shopping is preferred by consumers due to the convenience and possible discounts. Proving to provide all the answers to our questions, a single click on Google can lead to endless responses. With that being said, anyone can search for products and services online. The capability to reach a large mass all around the globe is certainly an advantage. In relation to the sport industry, the Internet is an advantage to increase interest and participation among society. Through live streams online, those who are not able to afford tickets to a live game or event, lives too far from the event venue and lacks time to attend are given the convenience to watch online either live or through a repeated medium. Clearly, the Internet benefits every industry ranging from health to fashion. Consumers are able to stay updated on the latest fashion trends and purchase exercising gears through various medium. In similar context, online donations are available for charity programs and refugee protection services. This noble act not only increases world economy, but also develops humanitarian and ultimately breaks the cycle of poverty – benefiting the world largely.

To conclude, the Internet certainly impacts society positively. The development of knowledge, social ability and marketing platform is parallel to the evolution of technology. While some believe technology diminishes innovation and imagination, in reality, technology plays an enormous role in elevating human lives. Live without technology will definitely bring more negative than positive. However, over exploitation towards the usage of technology will result in defeat. The development and attribution of technology should be used to full potential in a reliable manner to avoid negative impact on present and/or future generation.

Editor: Nur Batrisyia & Farah Nabila

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