Technology Provides an Alternative to Love…

Photo, Sebastian Anthony

Link to Jonathan Franzen – Technology Provides an Alternative to Love.

Well, it’s less messy. Or just delays the inevitable?

I enjoyed Jonathan Franzen’s insight into the phenomenon of “Liking,” particularly as it applies to Facebook.

Even as we (and me included) wholeheartedly enjoy social networking and enthusiastically “like” our friends’ photos, tastes in music, articles, etcetera, at some deeper level we truly do understand this is no substitute for real friendship.

In all honesty, my Facebook “friends” now include probably more people that I’ve never met than those who I actually have. And of those – I’m like most people, in that I only consider a few true “friends.”

But, social media and networking IS useful. I’ve found out more of what’s going on, as in events happening. I’ve been invited to more parties! I’ve gotten a lot of fashion tips, always helpful. Lately, I’ve received tips on finding apartments – and in general, when I pose a question to a Facebook “group,” I receive worthwhile information back.

I’ve unfriended (defriended?) a few people, mostly (I will admit it) because their politics didn’t agree with mine. I figured there was so much right wing bullshit being thrown at me everyday from multiple sources in real life, I sure as hell didn’t need it from Facebook “friends.” So indeed, “my” social media will reflect the mirror.

I want to read Franzen’s “Freedom,” but haven’t yet. Anyone have an opinion? I hear it’s wonderful.

 

 

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