The Best (and Worst) of Both Worlds: Questioning the Implications and Effects Of Online Worlds in Contemporary Society

Abstract

This thesis seeks to explore the ways in which smartphones are reshaping contemporary society. Smartphones allow for the existence of a digital world at the fingertips of society. As a result, these interactive technologies have allowed for timeless connectivity of people all around the world and these interactions are occurring and increasing at a rapid rate. Smartphones have connected people so much to the point where it is altering the demands of physical face-to-face interactions. This thesis explores the current anthropological debate regarding the online world. It describes how people have the ability to create identities on social media platforms and communicate through this online world. It depicts the influential powers of social media with regards to politics and everyday relationships. Lastly, it describes the problems with the addiction to smartphones and social media, and the impact it has on our humanity.