Networks: The Nervous System of Society

Social networks are and have always been a vital element of society. However, the way in which these social networks work has changed drastically throughout history. At one time, social networks would be created within a community of people based on their geographical location. In past tines when transport was not readily available, the only people that you would come across in your life time would be those who lived close to you. Social networks broadened as technology grew. The invention of trains and other modes of transport meant that people could travel further and meet different people and telephones meant that people could easily stay in touch with these people that they met. Further along the line, radio and television meant that information was shared on a regular basis from around the world. This correlation between technology and society has lead to social networks spanning across the globe through sites specifically created for social networking such as Facebook and MySpace. These sites provide a platform for sharing information with each other. The extent to which our personal information is shared is often criticised with many people choosing to divulge personal information about themselves such as mobile numbers and revealing pictures which can be seen not only by their friends but also by complete strangers. Has social networking gone too far or is it just a natural process in within society? This is an argument that will inevitably never end.