The Internet originally evolved into an educational tool wherein users could share, among other things, their thoughts and beliefs.
This still holds true today, and is one of the biggest advanteges of using the Internet over other forms of communication. People from all over the world can gather (virtually) and share their thoughts and beliefs.
Unfortunately the shiny side of the coin has a dark flip-side. While the right to freedom of expression is a wonderful thing and is enjoyed by more and more people each day, it cannot be denied that young minds are very impressionable, especially depressed young minds. The Internet provides a very convenient forum in which to preach. It also provides a very convenient means of persuasion, given the number of people who can gather to share common thoughts on any topic, including death, suicide, gothic fantasies and and all beliefs that tie the three together.
Does that make the Internet evil? No, just powerful, as are television, radio, newspaper, games and all other forms of media.
It is (should be) the responsibility of parents, friends, schools, and government (in that order) to protect young minds from the abuse of this power, and to educate them on how to deal with both their own feelings and emotions, as well as the feelings, emotions and beliefs of others.
Slashdot Mirror
...go to the CDT website. It answers all the above questions and more.
I agree. Your logic is correct. Furthermore...
The Internet originally evolved into an educational tool wherein users could share, among other things, their thoughts and beliefs.
This still holds true today, and is one of the biggest advanteges of using the Internet over other forms of communication. People from all over the world can gather (virtually) and share their thoughts and beliefs.
Unfortunately the shiny side of the coin has a dark flip-side. While the right to freedom of expression is a wonderful thing and is enjoyed by more and more people each day, it cannot be denied that young minds are very impressionable, especially depressed young minds. The Internet provides a very convenient forum in which to preach. It also provides a very convenient means of persuasion, given the number of people who can gather to share common thoughts on any topic, including death, suicide, gothic fantasies and and all beliefs that tie the three together.
Does that make the Internet evil? No, just powerful, as are television, radio, newspaper, games and all other forms of media.
It is (should be) the responsibility of parents, friends, schools, and government (in that order) to protect young minds from the abuse of this power, and to educate them on how to deal with both their own feelings and emotions, as well as the feelings, emotions and beliefs of others.
This is my opinion. Take it as you will.
Onzola