Internet

Definition

The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate using standardized protocols, enabling the exchange of information and resources. It has revolutionized communication, commerce, and culture, serving as a platform for social movements, technological advancements, and the spread of globalized culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Internet emerged from ARPANET, a project funded by the U.S. Department of Defense in the late 1960s aimed at creating a decentralized communication network.
2. By the 1990s, the Internet began to gain mainstream popularity with the advent of user-friendly web browsers, leading to an exponential growth in users and websites.
3. The Internet has facilitated global resistance movements by providing a platform for activists to organize, share information, and mobilize support across borders.
4. Technological advancements such as high-speed broadband and mobile connectivity have expanded Internet access, transforming how people communicate, learn, and conduct business.
5. The rise of the Internet has contributed to a globalized culture, blending local customs and traditions with influences from around the world through online interactions.

Review Questions

• How has the Internet influenced global resistance movements in the 20th century?
  • The Internet has played a crucial role in shaping global resistance movements by providing a platform for activists to connect, share information, and organize protests. Through social media and websites, individuals can spread awareness about social injustices and mobilize support quickly. This connectivity allows diverse groups worldwide to collaborate on common causes, significantly impacting political landscapes and empowering marginalized voices.
• Discuss the impact of technological advances on Internet accessibility and its effects on society.
  • Technological advances such as broadband technology and mobile devices have greatly increased Internet accessibility, allowing more people to connect regardless of geographic location. This expanded access has led to significant societal changes, including enhanced communication among individuals and communities. However, it has also highlighted issues like the digital divide, where those without access face disadvantages in education, job opportunities, and participation in the digital economy.
• Evaluate the implications of a globalized culture shaped by the Internet on local traditions and identities.
  • The globalization facilitated by the Internet brings both opportunities and challenges for local traditions and identities. On one hand, it allows for greater exposure to diverse cultures and ideas, fostering understanding and collaboration. On the other hand, it can lead to cultural homogenization, where unique local practices may diminish or adapt under global influences. As cultures interact online, individuals must navigate maintaining their identities while engaging with an increasingly interconnected world.

Related terms

World Wide Web: A system of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via the Internet, allowing users to view and navigate content using a web browser.

Digital Divide: The gap between individuals and communities that have access to modern information and communication technology and those that do not.

Social Media:

Online platforms that enable users to create, share, and interact with content and each other, often playing a key role in shaping public opinion and mobilizing social movements.