Wednesday, January 19, 2011

What is social networking?

Social networking is the grouping of individuals into specific groups, like small rural communities or a neighborhood subdivision. Although social networking is possible in person, especially in the workplace, universities, and high schools, it is most popular online. When it comes to online social networking, websites are commonly used. These websites are known as social sites. Social networking websites function like an online community of internet users.[1] Social networks were created as a way for people to make new friends and communicate with one another. Facebook is currently the most popular social networking website in the world. It was created in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg, and in 2010, reached over 400 million active users.[2] Zuckerger’s goal in creating Facebook was to help people meet other individuals through networks. These networks serve as communities and often include people from the same school, company, or region. This way, individuals can connect with the people around them. Social Networks can be used for a number of reasons, such as making new friends, staying in touch with friends and family, searching for a romantic relationship, and more. Despite critics claiming that Generation Y users lack “real-life” social interactions, the founder of Facebook created this site to increase “face to face” confrontations.[3]



[1] Whatissocialnetworking.com. Web. 19 Jan. 2011. .

[2] "Facebook: Facts, Figures & Statistics For 2010 | Digital Buzz Blog." Digital Buzz Blog. Web. 19 Jan. 2011. .

[3] Westlake, E.J. "Friend Me If You Facebook". The Drama Review. 52:4, (2008). p. 21-31. Internet.

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