Posted by BEN BEAUMONT – While many “new media” experts harp on the isolation caused by the rise in Internet social networking, University of Toronto sociologist Barry Wellman says the Web actually brings people together in more genuine ways.
In a speech today at the Clinton School, Wellman said the Internet and other new technologies have given people easier, more personal communication. While families are spending less time together, they are communicating more through email, text messaging and sites like Twitter and Facebook, Wellman said
Wellman is co-editor of “The Internet in Everyday Life,” which brings together leading experts who examine the social effects of the Internet. He is currently working on a new book called “Connected Lives,” about the ability of new technologies to connect individuals. Video of his lecture will be available soon at www.clintonschoolspeakers.com.
University of Toronto Sociology professor Barry Wellman speaks at the Clinton School.