I found this article VERY interesting and well-written. I would like to answer the question that asks, "How does the Internet MEDIATE these people's work or social relationships?"
The answer to this question is directly related to a paragraph on page 642 of Ullmen's article. The internet removes the physical mediator from our lives. Where we use to need a travel agent, real-estate agent, insurance agent, sales clerk or even teacher, the internet has now replaced that. The internet is now the mediator and we take on those roles for ourselves. I recently went to Las Vegas for a weekend and used a site I had never used to find a great deal on a hotel. I did this instead of using a travel agent or even picking up my phone to call for prices of a hotel. I found a great deal and had a great weekend. ☺
Doesn't it make you wonder how we ever lived without the Internet? As soon as I have a question of any kind, my first thought is, "Well, I'll just go Google it!" And I'm rarely disappointed.
ReplyDeleteIt's so convenient to not have to have physical intermediaries anymore. I can't imagine going to 14 different hotels before finally deciding which one to stay at!
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