In his book, “You Are Not a Gadget,” Lanier argues about the similarities between human neoteny and technology. Human beings require attention, socialization, networking and the sharing of their experiences and feeling; technology provides such opportunities to many people. Social networks and blogs allow people to obtain extensive attention from other individuals. Therefore, one of the most beneficial effects of Internet use is the ability to minimize experiences of separation anxiety.
“Young people announce every detail of their lives on services like Twitter and Facebook, not to show off, but to avoid the closed door at bedtime, the empty room [and] the screaming vacuum of an isolated mind,” Lanier said.
Considering my personal experience with Facebook, I have to admit that I am totally agree with him. I share my feelings and emotional status with my Facebook friends in order to receive attention, yet strangely, I become poignant whenever I don’t receive any comments (which indicate support) on my emotional status. I use Facebook as a tool to fill my loneliness.
Despite the utility of such an online networking service, I remain unsure as to whether or not such a tool is an effective method of resolving separation anxiety. I mean, really, are a few comments on a social networking site (e.g., Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and MySpace) truly capable of emotionally satisfying an individual?
In 2009, I read a story about a Korean pop star, Jay Park, regarding the incorrect interpretation of a comment he made on MySpace. A Korean publication had misinterpreted his comment, and, as a result, he was immersed in a frenzy that was so controversial, he decided to leave his band—2PM—to return to Seattle. After he left, his media image quickly changed as the press and the public discovered the misinterpretation of his comment. He swiftly gained sympathy and support internationally, resulting in silent protests in many countries. His album soon became one of the most popular topics on social media sites, such as Twitter.
I believe that there is a big difference between who you think you are and who you really are, as a user of online social networks. Therefore, whatever attention or support you receive online is not truly intended for you. Thus, to a certain extent, it can be argued that such attention cannot be reasonably considered as support. When you are sitting in an empty room and begin to feel lonely, your Facebook friends may temporarily entertain you, causing you envision an escape from your isolation and anxiety. However, in truth, you would remain in that empty room, with nobody beside you.
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