How technology, with particular emphasis on the internet and Essay - 2

How technology, with particular emphasis on the internet and computers, has changed world culture - Essay Example This communication explosion is the biggest cultural impact of the new technologies. Beneath the surface of this virtual world of avatars, wikis, blogs, and tweets, however, there are some deeper cultural changes which have both good and bad consequences. On the positive side, applications like video-conferencing and instant messaging are very useful in the world of work because they facilitate group discussions without the need for expensive real life travel. This saves time, and reduces the carbon footprint of any business. In terms of family and social relationships, these technologies also allow more frequent contact between individuals, even when they are located in different places, or even different countries. This can enhance family stability. Students can access a far wider range of learning resources, and older people can join leisure and interest groups, which offer friendship in pursuing hobbies, dealing with illnesses, and finding any number of other beneficial services. The internet exposes everyone who can afford to be connected, to a vast array of information sources and different points of view. One big negative change in the world has been a widening of the gap between rich and poor people. In Africa, for example, and in some deprived inner city areas of the developed world, there are many people who are excluded from these exciting opportunities because they do not have the resources to pay for equipment and broadband charges. This cultural divide can cause resentment and friction between developed and less developed countries or regions. For those who do enjoy the many benefits of the new technologies there are significant dangers which must be taken into account. Parents are rightly concerned about criminals, or even other children, who might contact their children inappropriately and promote immoral, illegal or other potentially harmful activities. There are internet