The Launch of Social Media
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Prior to the arrival of the internet, face-to-face interactions were the only way individuals were able to have meaningful conversations and to essentially initiate and build relationships. However, with the advent of the internet and the advancement of communication technology, came the creation of new interactive platforms where alternative styles of communication were introduced. One of the major and most popular platforms introduced is social media. Social media, the mobile and web-based technology, is a form of a public sphere which “...can be conceived of as public space for communication” (Sommerfelt 281). Therefore, making it easier for users to interact, participate, share information and maintain relationships. Accessible and convenient alternatives to face-to-face communication is an attractive idea to many, thus resulting in the increasing popularity and usage of social media. Porter et al. acknowledges the growing popularity of social media and reports that it is “the number one use for the Internet, and [that] this percentage is growing larger every day” (qtd. in Qualman). Over time, our society has become more technologically advanced, allowing individuals to communicate and interact with just a few simple clicks on their computer or taps on their mobile device. |