Internet

Definition

The internet is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate through standardized protocols, enabling the sharing of information and resources. It revolutionized the way people access and exchange data, transforming traditional communication methods and giving rise to new media formats and platforms that influence society today.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The internet was developed in the late 1960s as ARPANET, a project by the U.S. Department of Defense, initially intended for military communication.
2. By the 1990s, the commercial use of the internet expanded rapidly, leading to the dot-com boom and a significant increase in web users worldwide.
3. The introduction of broadband technology in the early 2000s greatly enhanced internet speed and accessibility, transforming how people consume media.
4. The rise of mobile internet access has further revolutionized communication, allowing users to connect from virtually anywhere using smartphones and other devices.
5. The internet serves as a vital platform for social movements, enabling grassroots organizations to mobilize support, raise awareness, and foster community engagement.

Review Questions

• How did the development of the internet influence traditional forms of media?
  • The development of the internet fundamentally transformed traditional forms of media by shifting the focus from one-way communication to a more interactive model. Traditional media outlets like newspapers, television, and radio had established ways to disseminate information to passive audiences. With the internet's rise, content became more democratized as individuals gained the ability to create and share information, resulting in a multitude of voices and perspectives being heard. This shift also led to changes in advertising models and how news is consumed.
• Discuss the role of social media platforms in shaping public discourse on the internet.
  • Social media platforms play a crucial role in shaping public discourse by providing spaces for individuals to express opinions, share news, and engage in conversations. These platforms allow for real-time interaction and have become important tools for activism and social movements. The viral nature of content on social media can amplify messages quickly, often leading to significant societal impact. However, this can also contribute to challenges such as misinformation and polarization within public discussions.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of internet accessibility on global society and culture.
  • The long-term implications of internet accessibility on global society are profound, affecting culture, economics, education, and interpersonal relationships. Increased access promotes knowledge sharing and cultural exchange but can also exacerbate existing inequalities between those with internet access and those without. As more aspects of life move online, issues related to privacy, digital literacy, and cybersecurity become increasingly critical. Additionally, as cultures interact more frequently through digital platforms, there may be shifts in values, norms, and behaviors across different societies.

Related terms

World Wide Web: A system of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via the internet, allowing users to view and navigate information through web browsers.

Social Media: Digital platforms that enable users to create, share, and interact with content and each other, significantly impacting communication patterns and societal engagement.

Email: A method of exchanging digital messages over the internet, which has become a fundamental tool for personal and professional communication.