What is the internet?

According to Merriam-Webster, the internet can be defined as “an electronic communications network that connects computer networks and organizational computer facilities around the world.” To me, the internet is a conglomeration of websites that contain facts, opinions, knowledge, pictures, games, stores, and many other things. The internet is a place where you can find almost anything. It helps bring people closer while simultaneously pulling people apart. It is an intangible force that governs so much of our lives.

Where is the internet?

The internet is everywhere. I am on the internet as I write this post, and the internet is where it will live. The internet is in our pockets and purses in the form of smartphones. It’s in our backpacks and bags in the form of laptops. It’s in our homes, schools, places of worship, restaurants, and stores. The internet has become so mainstream that you can access it almost anywhere. 

What is not the internet?

Even though the internet is everywhere, it is not everything. The internet is not our friends or our family. It is not our religion or our beliefs. It is not our self-worth or our confidence.  It is not our forests or our oceans. It is not our grass or our flowers, nor our food or air. The internet is becoming normal, but it is not natural.

What is the internet becoming?

The internet has evolved drastically since its creation. It started as a place for the common person. Although that is still partially true, the internet is being used more and more as a money-making tool for big brands. The internet has lost some of its “naivety,” so to speak. It is also becoming a place that is a source of false information and needs constant fact-checking. 

What do you love about the internet?

Despite the perpetuation of “fake news” and the plethora of unsolicited advertising, the internet is a wonderful place. It is a place where you can find information in a matter of seconds. During COVID, it was a place where I could continue my education, even from the comfort and safety of my home. It is a place to discover new things. It is a place where you can buy almost anything. It is a place where you can stay in touch with friends and family while simultaneously making new friends you would have never met without the internet. The internet is a place that can bring humans from all over the globe together. 

What scares you about the internet?

Although there are wonderful things that come from the internet, nothing is ever all rainbows and unicorns. The internet can be a scary place. It can spread false information faster than we ever could before. It gives young people access to things they should not have access to. It allows for things such as the dark web. It has scams and hackers. It promotes bad businesses and tries to brainwash you with advertisements.

Conclusion

Overall, the internet is an amazing place, as long as you are cautious. There are some things you will never be able to avoid while using the internet, but for the most part, it is a good place. Whether we like it or not, the internet is all around us and does not seem to be going away anytime soon. As a society, we need to learn more about the internet and its harms on us, while simultaneously updating laws and norms to account for the internet. It is our responsibility, as a group and individuals, to use the internet responsibly, respectfully, and safely.