positive and the negative effects of the computer and the internet, in contemporary times

Thesis statement:

Reading Cyber Minds, the first selection, “Isolated by the Internet” by Clifford Stoll, the author shows that the effects of Internet which are destroying human relationships and increasing depression and loneliness to its users.

In the introduction, Stoll starts with the positively speaking Internet users, for example: one have found support group for her unknown medical condition. But according to psychologists Robert Kraut and Vicki Lundmark, it is not necessarily positive social development because it affects connections between people. Kraut and Lundmark have studied ninety-six families for two years in order to learn about the social effects of Internet. Using standardized psychological tests; the psychologists found increased depression and loneliness in the participants. On the other hand, online relationships have developed too, but based on the observation by the psychologist they are very rare.

A lot of online friends cannot get help with favors like small loans, baby-sitting and some other real helps. Afterward, author states, “Paradoxically, the Internet is a social technology used for communication, unfortunately, it results in declining social involvement and psychological well being”. The research makes rather overbearing point, but “an extremely careful scientific study,” said scientist Tora Bikson. In spite of that, according to computer scientists James Katz and Philip Aspden, Internet is a medium for creating friendships and keeps in touch with family.

Computer scientists have surveyed six hundred users by phone. As a result, they conclude “The Internet is creating a nation richer in friendships and social relationships”. However, they have not examined the quality of online friendships and relationships. Furthermore, psychologists draw attention to the psychological troubles. Using Internet for long period of time, people cut out from their social networks. This isolation raises psychological trouble, which is a ...