I feel that through the evolution of Facebook, emails, texting etc. there is a risk that we're losing touch with human touch.  Anybody have any feedback, or stories relating to this?  Is this the right forum for this?

Many online relationships translate very well offline.  The internet provides a vehicle for people to connect.  Sometimes these relationships are limited to the internet, much like when you pick up the phone to order a pizza.  But then there is the possibility to develop offline relationships as well.  In general, I think the internet enhances my human experience.

I think technology has given us humans another chance to, an additional chance to, perceive yet one more perspective of inter personal  relationships. I find it extremely interesting to communicate with others over the net. It brings up all kinds of issue aspects that have never come up before about communicating. All knowledge is good...when used for good purposes.

It's like just about anything else...it has great potential both ways.  I've seen people who have virtually cut themselves off from actual physical interaction in favor of the internet because its anonymity makes them feel more powerful...more confident.  I've also seen real friendships bud and blossom online and then carry over into the real world.

What we have to remember is that the internet is a tool and, as such, its value is limited to how we use it.  A hammer can help build a building...but it can also tear one apart.

Moderation and discretion.  In all things, not just technology.

Ya thats Right ...Importance of social networking increases to day....

What about the younger generation?  We've been brought up socializing one-on-one, and it's a great tool.  But about the ramications to children who are "learning" to interact in their very informative years?  What is this teaching them about socializing?  When someone "bugs" them, they block them, that's not real life and there are no lessons learned.

elisabeth reid wrote:

It's like just about anything else...it has great potential both ways.  I've seen people who have virtually cut themselves off from actual physical interaction in favor of the internet because its anonymity makes them feel more powerful...more confident.  I've also seen real friendships bud and blossom online and then carry over into the real world.

What we have to remember is that the internet is a tool and, as such, its value is limited to how we use it.  A hammer can help build a building...but it can also tear one apart.

Moderation and discretion.  In all things, not just technology.

I agree with you Elisabeth.  Just like other things, it's about moderation.  If you go too far in one direction then others will tend to 'over compensate' and go the opposite direction.  Then it's like a snow ball effect of one group always trying to over compensate for the other.

This over compensation can be seen in politics, business, health, relationships.  Think about it.

I think it gets odd when friends start sending you drinks and cakes on facebook.  What do you suppose to do with them?  put them in your virtual fridge for the next virtual party?

Virtual kisses are still fine though

I can send you one

I love the internet as most of my friends are travelers. Some never have a fixed address and we wouldn't be able to maintain our closeness without the aid of a computer. Of course we also try to visit each other when we have the money too.

I agree with the comment "moderation and discretion".

If something like facebook had been around 25 years ago when I first went overseas to work I might have staying in contact with some of my then friends - now its so easy - then it was letters or $5/minute calls - technology is wonderful!

Princessa wrote:

I think it gets odd when friends start sending you drinks and cakes on facebook.  What do you suppose to do with them?  put them in your virtual fridge for the next virtual party?

That was really funny.

What about the younger generation?  We've been brought up socializing one-on-one, and it's a great tool.  But about the ramications to children who are "learning" to interact in their very informative years?  What is this teaching them about socializing?  When someone "bugs" them, they block them, that's not real life and there are no lessons learned.

Misha wrote:

Virtual kisses are still fine though

I can send you one

I am waiting Misha... lol  If I enjoy it I might even let you in to see my sexy costume...

I don't think we are connected there yet. Feel free to befriend me :-* http://profile.to/malexandrov/

The issue is not whether technology is replacing human interaction, it is whether we are training our children to do so.

How many parents do you know who restrict their children from the internet, effectively forcing them to have real, truly meaningful involvement with the world around them?

Charlotte,

Restrictions never work. They just create cravings and desires that strike really hard later...

Reasonable restrictions -do- work.  You can't just say "Oh, little Johnny, no myspace for you CUZ I SAID SO!"  but rather, if approached calmly, rationally, you can help your child to understand the importance of personal interaction over computer-based interaction.

I used to think along those lines, too... Not any more

I imagine that somewhere down the line something may convince me that the kids who spend hours and hours in front of myspace and facebook are being raised by good people with wholesome intentions, but for now I refer you to this:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=g7wWC0tfJZY