Social Networking – Are There Real Benefits?
Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, you name it – we have it. Each of these are networks, we can create networks within these entities(I call these meta-networks). On the positive side, meta-networks have led to creation of social linkages that seek freedom of expression as evidenced by the events in Iran which could easily have been suppressed without these meta-networks. On the negative side, we have privacy violations with Facebook showing us what can happen when greed meets freedom.
Perhaps a good use of social networks is to realize the dream I had in my previous blog – a vast social network that becomes the virtual insurance and arbitrator of healthcare. And in my infinite wisdom, I referred to Facebook. Facebook, why did you become greedy?
Just as our work and personal lives are merging and bluring, our social networks will too. I see a future where there is little distinction between the two: not necessarily a good thing, but I don’t think future generations will care.
Howard, I totally agree with you. My concern is not change but I believe in change that improves us. Social networks can be very useful, but misused as well.