How mankind has been evolving in the technology area? Is the internet a friend or a foe?

    Before explaining how we humans have adapted to the new technological eras, we should first explain how we, as humans, have the ability to overcome new difficulties compared to other species. 

    It is known that bacteria have flagella and it was thought that bacteria moved thanks to these but in the 70's it was discovered that this was incorrect. Since the flagella function as propellers and the bacterium itself is the motor. We can take into account that it takes several years for a bacterium to develop and elaborate new characteristics, When we, as humans in just a glimpse have the posibility to create something new, if something is not functioning correctly, human being can just remove it and try to get something better, for example: We can take our boat to the lake and once we are done with it, we can get the engine out and keep it in a safe place or even buy something faster, which is something the bacterium cannot do. This means that if humans need to reach an apple that is in the tree we are not going to grow some wings, we shall invent a ladder. 

  

    "Everything can be found in the internet" a popular phrase that have spread all over the world but is not as good as it sounds.

    Web 2.0 marked an era in which users ceased to be mere consumers of content and became creators as well. Blogs were one of the first manifestations of this change, allowing people to share their thoughts and experiences online in a simple way. Over time, the way content is shared has evolved into more visual and dynamic formats, such as video. Platforms such as YouTube and, later, TikTok allowed users to express and consume content in a more interactive and engaging way. In the 2010s, social networks underwent a significant redesign. Instagram, launched in 2010, is a clear example of this change, with a focus on sharing images and short videos rather than long texts. These changes made visual content the primary means of communication on social networks, transforming the way people consume and share information.

    However, the ease of creating and sharing content has led to the proliferation of false information and misinformation. This includes fake news, conspiracy theories and manipulated content that can negatively influence public opinion and cause distrust and confusion. Social networks have transformed social interaction, enabling more instantaneous and global communication. However, they have also introduced new challenges, such as online harassment and reliance on social validation through “likes” and “shares.” In an information-saturated digital environment, the role of educators and opinion leaders has changed. It is no longer about being the sole source of truth, but teaching others how to navigate and discern reliable information in a vast sea of data. Wikipedia, while not always considered a completely reliable source, serves as a valuable starting point as it includes links to more scholarly and verifiable sources.

    It is crucial to teach users how to identify dangers on the Internet, such as harmful content, scams and misinformation. This includes educating on how to discern reliable sources and avoid falling into clickbait traps. The law of least effort refers to the tendency of people to look for the easiest way to obtain information, which can lead to a loss of interest in the process of deep learning. It is important to encourage effort and patience in the search for knowledge to counteract this tendency and promote more meaningful learning.

    Social networking can have several negative effects, such as depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), insomnia and sleep problems, and a decrease in academic and work performance. These impacts are the result of the constant need to be connected and the pressure of social validation. To minimize the risks associated with technology use, strategies such as monitoring and guiding Internet use, establishing clear rules, using content filters, and reviewing search history should be implemented. These measures can help protect users, especially younger ones, from online dangers.

    In conclusion, in the digital age, it is crucial to identify reliable sources and be aware of the risks of misinformation. Immediacy and clickbait can lead to the spread of misinformation. Bullying and other negative behaviors are also significant risks in the digital environment. Therefore, it is essential to educate and guide users to navigate safely and responsibly on the Internet.

    "We are all connected by the internet, like neurons in a giant brain"

    - Stephen Hawking

    If you want to read more about the challenges related to the internet, and play a little game at the end, try to visit our Power Point Presentation: ppt

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