Facebook is a popular social networking website that has had an immense impact worldwide. It is one of the hottest mediums to date, attracting the attention of millions of individuals. Facebook enables its users to post videos, photos, and messages to share with their friends easily online. In addition, Facebook supports a variety of applications including Farmville, an addicting online game, and Picnik, a user-friendly photo editor. Furthermore, it allows its users to join a variety of common interest groups, whether one in support of an underground band or a specific food group. According to McLuhan, it is not these contents (videos, words, games, photos, etc.) that are of utmost importance; rather, Facebook’s message is what matters.
Facebook has had both positive and negative effects on our world. In a positive light, it allows its users to stay in contact with friends and acquaintances with the click of a button. One can easily say hello to an old friend from college by sending an inbox message or writing a wall post. This ease of communication has allowed friendships to thrive, whether across the globe or next door. However, Facebook has also become an obsession for many. Time seems to waste away when one is on Facebook. Rather than focusing on a homework assignment or filing papers at work, Facebook users set their status, tag photo albums, and creep on their friends’ profiles. This obsession has led to problems in the workplace and the classroom. Furthermore, rather than engage in physical activity or take the time to cook up a healthy meal, Facebookers are glued to their computer screens. Facebook has also raised concern in the area of security and privacy protection. While there are multiple security features available to limit the accessibility of one’s profile, there are always loopholes. Situations continue to arise in which an individual says he is who he is not, occasionally resulting in hurt feelings and even criminal offenses.
No comments:
Post a Comment