What is the Internet (to you)?

[sat2493]

Wikipedia’s article on it doesn’t quite satisfy me. I’m asking from the place of self-concern for how I’ve depended on the Internet for my survival for most of my life (I’m 23 now). I honestly can’t take myself out of this way of scavenging, exploring, and navigating “the world”. I can’t see any other way of interacting with life.

I know I am also using the Internet to ask about the Internet also. I am not looking for “the answer” right now. But I want to get out of my head for now. I want some clues as to what I can point to at as “the Internet” has been to others.

For me, I’ve used the Internet for selfish reasons (self-gratification through porn). I’ve also used it as a feedback loop for solidifying my beliefs.

The deeper psychological reason was really because my relationship with my family and friends sucked as a kid, so I searched for my emotional needs through online forums, YouTube communities, Facebook, online friends, etc. I’ve also engaged in bullying using the Internet, not proud to admit this but yeah.

I’ve used the Internet for endless intellectual stimulation once I found out that I could absorb more information online than I could at school, and with the friend group that I had.

All my important life decisions have always begun, many times unconsciously, through searching through Google.

How about your guys? What is “the Internet” for you guys?

[Hansu]

The first step towards superhumans with AI and infinite information always in their grasp. In my vision, the children in elementary school wont be learning math in 30-50 years. Instead they are building AI:s that work in perfect synchrony with their brains, and proceed to make faster and more accurate calculations on say, building strenght than our engineers with their computers do today.

Imagine not having to do learn math because you already have it.

On other hand, internet has robbed us of freedom to time. We are pressurised to be on social platforms 24/7. Didnt answer someone in 15 minutes? You inconsiderable asshole! In the past, you had to leave your home and look for attention. Now attention comes to you.

[sat2493]

6 hours ago, Hansu said:

The first step towards superhumans with AI and infinite information always in their grasp. In my vision, the children in elementary school wont be learning math in 30-50 years. Instead they are building AI:s that work in perfect synchrony with their brains, and proceed to make faster and more accurate calculations on say, building strenght than our engineers with their computers do today.

Imagine not having to do learn math because you already have it.

On other hand, internet has robbed us of freedom to time. We are pressurised to be on social platforms 24/7. Didnt answer someone in 15 minutes? You inconsiderable asshole! In the past, you had to leave your home and look for attention. Now attention comes to you.

Interesting vision. I do feel a pressure, as if it’s coming from the outside and not within me, to always pick up my phone, always search through forums, and social media for replies. Almost as if I’m glued to my device, and it feels to me as if “it’s out of necessity”. Thank you for your reply