On a daily basis, Internet users around the world subconsciously plug in key words into their built-in Google toolbars. This habit has become second nature to almost all of us. Within 0.14 seconds, we’re able to rummage around a wealth of new knowledge and pick and choose tidbits that we interpret as valuable information. It’s obvious that the Internet facilitates communication and the spread of data. Yet, because convenience always seems to take precedence, many questions arise. Does Google make you stupid? Does collectivism pull the plug on innovation?
According to Jaron Lanier, the answer to those two questions is yes. He embodies the Morrissey lyric, “Why don’t you find out for yourself?” He believes that the current model of collaboration is destructive and prohibits any trace of creativity. Without a sense of privacy, he believes teams could only produce average work as individualism is lost completely.
Is user generated content debilitating towards learning? Clearly, open sources that simply anyone can contribute to, such as Uncyclopedia, may just be counterproductive. Laziness has reached unconceivable levels, as people even need help using Google. Yes, the Internet does promote laziness, but it certainly doesn’t stifle creativity or inhibit learning. With much efficiency, we’re now able to make better choices and develop more in-depth solutions with less time. And as a whole, the Internet and the all-encompassing technologies appear to be globalizing education. As a universal medium, the Internet now allows for a flexible classroom setting that can be accessed in the most remote places. The Internet allows powerful communication as well as collaboration for students and teachers. In turn, as individuals have access to such a large peer base, the process of brainstorming creates a larger pool for idea generation.
Creativity is not stifled. With greater access to information, creativity proliferates. What would life be like without Google? I can answer that.
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