The Social Impact of Social Networks Essay

The social impact of social networks
Technological advances in the field of communication have always been object of study in the social sciences, since new forms of social relations generated led to a transformation in the habits and customs of the society. Already in the 19th century, the invention of the Telegraph and then phone involved a change in personal and commercial relations that had detractors and supporters of the same. Concerns against pointed to social isolation and lack of intimacy as some of the harmful effects of these innovations, and opinions to favor advocated increased interaction and connection among people. With Internet and the explosion of social networks these views have not changed much of of that time. But progress also evolves, and the obvious difference is his great diffusion in much shorter periods, which forms the background of research on the social impact of social networks.
Just like other technological innovations, the use of social networks transforms the lifestyles, changing practices and, also, creates new vocabulary, but all this occurs at a pace so fast that it generates confusion and ignorance of rights surrounding its activity and usability. Many of the studies that are conducted today topics related to identity, privacy, or for these same reasons teen use. One of the problems which point advocates responsible use of social networks is that, through them, we are exposed. Our data are shared and surfing the net and, at the same time, information of all kinds breaks into our computers while we can discriminate the content. This is particularly worrying in the case of minors, whose privacy is compromised to practices in the network. Example of this are new episodes of bullying which targeted the misuse of networks by minors, and privacy policies offered by the company. Likewise, social networks become part of their social learning, that if well may be beneficial used suitably, in many cases creates models away from reality generating behaviors and attitudes that give rise to problems of self-esteem and stress, among them are those related to the care of the image, the prototypes of success or digital reputation.
Another of the effects of social networks most studied is the power of manifestation that possess, in the broadest sense of the word. The immediacy of the communication and transmission of user and content makes them a powerful social tool. Citizens movements are organized through social networks originating historic events such as the recent "Arab spring". Social capital, discussed on numerous occasions by sociologists and anthropologists as the value of collaboration and exchange between groups, through a network of relationships, which allows access to certain resources for the benefit of group and individual, takes on a new meaning in the light of modern interrelation ways that produce social networks. Its functionality and Ubiquity have a complex impact on the society, its impact, both global and local, it is increased and develops every minute with new utilities that give rise to substantial changes to the community and individuals.