I don't think much about it..... that's what I think

Yes, how many of us have the time, ability, or resources to have discussion groups with like-minded people in the real world? Maybe when I retire some day! I kind of envy those old guys and ladies at the breakfast places, sitting around just talking and connecting. I can talk about some topics at work with my co-workers...but there's a policy against talking about politics and religion. I can speak openly with my family when I visit them...but we don't live in the same town. Personally, in my situation, I think the internet has been such a great way to communicate with secular minded people...to avoid the discomfort of 'coming out' about atheism to people that I associate with...but who aren't likely to become my close friends. Online conversations take the place of the coffee shop cafes I picture in my head that intellectuals and college kids hang out in and talk about meaningful subjects. And of course I get the chance to edit and think about my comments before I submit them..it's not a free-for-all conversation where everyone interrupts everyone else or loses track of what they meant to say before the conversation moves along to something else!

i think it is both and there is nothing inherently wrong with either. i don't spend less time with people irl than i did before the internet; it is possible i spend more. in fact, i go to an adult daycare center with my alzheimer's-afflicted guy, thrice a week, and that's more social contact than i had before. i found that center online! when i was able to go to poetry readings, i found those online. the internet is a blessing for me.

g

I think the bad side of the internet is the proliferation of lies and conspiracy theories. People can get in their own little bubble of like-minded believers, and get way off track and far from reality. But just using it as an easier form of communication and connecting, like you do, and like I do, is generally a good thing.

I like doing both...I like learning about how others live and think and have access to all sorts of ideas and topics on the internet...I can then take these and have meaningful things to discuss with IRL friends and family that I have known for years...

I use the internet to broaden or shore up my views and values...share fun jokes or pictures...

It has made me less shy when I do meet people IRL because I am keeping up with topics, know terminology and what is on the minds of people younger and different than me...I am braver to add to the conversation...

and, I have found out it is ok to go out in public in yoga pants......

I've created a career on the Internet.

I am in your corner.