GMAT Essays (AWA)

Technology ultimately separates and alienates people more than it serves to bring them together

The issue whether technology helps to bring people together is a very controversial one and is increasingly important in the age of technology. Many people believe that technology separates individuals from each other because individuals find it more convenient to use more advanced communication methods to communicate messages rather than meeting in person. However, these people clearly overlook the advantages that are associated with the use of technology since individuals can use it as a means to build networks, stay in touch with old friends and meet new people.

First of all, the online networks that were launched in recent years helped bringing people back together because individuals were able to get back in touch with old friend with whom they lost contact based on the fact that they lost their contact details. For example, online networks such as facebook, asmollworld.net and xing helped people to build networks, exchange information online, organize social events and find new people with whom they share the same interests.

Moreover, technology enabled singles to meet potential future partners online. An increasing number of people were successful in finding suitable partners via online dating networks. Several studies have shown that relationships that have their origin in the internet rather than the traditional way last significantly longer and couples are happier with their partner. For instance, an online dating network called ‘Harmony’ in Europe conducted several surveys in European countries that concluded that the customers are very satisfied with the results and more than 80% of the relationships that Harmony created end up in a marriage and last for at least five years.

Thirdly, some experts argue that even though the use of the internet resulted in an increased frequency of communication, it is less personal than the traditional way of meeting people in person which results in the fact that most people today have a higher number of contacts but lack strong bounds with individuals and thus feel isolated. However, these people ignore the huge amount of opportunities that lonely people have to make new friends, business contacts, date people with the same interests, attend social events, etc.

In conclusion, I have argued that technology is a very helpful tool to bring people together and it is important that individuals use the opportunities that are offered via internet to socialize. Advanced communication methods such as the internet offer interesting networks that enable people to broaden their social lives by getting back in touch with old friends and meet new people.