The Power and Limits of Social Networks

The advent of social networking has created a whole new dimension of connectivity between individuals. Tools like Facebook, Myspace, and Friendster have become immensely popular; social networks have made various effects on social relations. Benkler mentions two main effects: the "thickening of preexisting relations" and "the emergence of greater scope for limited-purpose, loose relationships" (357). The Internet has created a dynamic system for communicating that is incomparable to the other forms of communication media.

Communication media such as the TV, radio, and print differ from the Internet by a simple and obvious aspect. The conversation is only one way; the people receiving the message are always only on the receiving end. There is no exchange between the audience and the broadcaster. The message is communicated to a massive audience yet there is little possibility for reponse.

The telephone provides opportunities for exchange yet it is still limited. Telephone conversations are often confined to two individuals or sometimes three if the conference call feature is used. In addition, time is an important factor when using the telephone. The parties communicating need to be available at the same time in order to talk.

The social tools that exist in the Internet do not have many of the problems that other communication media have. The Internet is a place where discourse is ubiquitous; hence, it is impossible for something to be communicated and not receive any response from the public. Commenting tools, email, instant messaging etc. offer easy and quick ways to create dialogue. The issue of time is also not a problem for the Internet. People can converse instantly via chat or they can do it on their own time via email. Things said on the Internet are not completely ephemeral. They linger for a period of time; some stay longer than others.

It is this flexibility of the Internet sets it apart. It offers instantaneous activity and some longevity of content.