Hate Websites

I was pretty disturbed when I saw the documentary on these hate websites.  To be honest, I never gave too much thought of how the internet can lead to situations like these.  I wasn't shocked to see these websites (because by now, users should expect to find the unexpected on the internet), but it made me slightly sad that there are these types of people out there who are so closed minded and can so blatantly proclaim themselves as the greatest beings on earth.  Believing in themselves is fine, but when their actions start to affect other people (i.e. other races should die), then that becomes a problem.  

This is where one of the internet’s strongest characteristic (accessibility) does not do society a favor.  These internet websites provide an outlet for these types of people to congregate and encourage others to take action against those that shouldn't exist.  The internet allows them to preach their message to a greater mass of people because it is accessible by almost everyone.  It is an easy way to spread their beliefs without meeting many barriers.  These hate websites allowed for the organizations to recruit people without even meeting them in person.  It was disturbing to discover how these websites promoted the 'lone wolves' to take action and that they would be highly praised after committing inhumane acts.  The lone wolves would be able to gain publicity and fame when these sites glorify them and their acts. 

Some people argue that people should have the freedom to create and post whatever they want.  I think this is fine, but at the same time, if it is the messages and writings that they post online which are causing people to be victimized and die, then I’m not so sure that these people should be given the freedom of speech.  This freedom comes with a responsibility and I feel that these people abuse their power. 

In response to these hate websites, I think websites should be created to counter these actions.  Sites should be created that promotes diversity and informs people about the tragedies that occur from those who are closed minded.  

Technology and Social Interaction

I think the spread of technology has had a negative impact on my face to face interaction.  Although I hate to admit it, I feel more comfortable chatting through instant messages instead of through a web cam (of course I would always prefer to talk in person).  It allows me to “hide” behind my screen name.  For example, if someone made me really angry, the other person would not know if I replied with “hahaha” since she/he is not able to see my facial reactions.  I find it ironic how there’s a trend to use “smiley faces” to further express our emotions because typing out our responses is inadequate in expressing our feelings.  I like how instant messaging allows me to think about my responses before sending them.   I think the spread of technology allows people to multitask in the sense that they can become more social since they are able to chat with more than one person at once.  At the same time, I feel that some people might lose some social skills because they are only able to communicate through screens and not face to face.  I notice that some of my classmates in my engineering classes could be considered “antisocial” because they are so caught up with the technology.

I think it is fine to use the Internet to meet other people.  It does have a convenient factor which allows for everything to be accessible and available almost everywhere.  These online sites have the capacity to hold more data and help people find matches more easily.  I, myself, am weary of these sites because I know that risks that come with using these sites.  People can easily tailor a profile that is likeable and does not portray who they actually they are.  Some predators can upload information just to meet new people. 

I think connecting to others through online communities adds another aspect to our social lives.  It allows us to meet a broader range of people who are not bounded by geography or time.  I’m not sure if the relationships are as meaningful and intimate as meeting someone in real life.  I’m sure that we are able to carry relationships with people we meet online, but I don’t think they are as deep as actual face to face communications.  I can understand why some people would prefer virtual relationships instead of actual relationships because it can be so easy to create a world that is in their favor.  They can instantly change anything they don’t like and create anything at the tip of their fingertips.  Some people can get caught up in their virtual world that they neglect to nourish themselves.  For example, they could forget to eat or sleep, don’t even talk about talking with your family members. 

I think it’s important to remember to stay connected with others through real spaces.  Sometimes I feel that people get too caught up and addicted to technology that they neglect their real world.