Mass Production of Social Networking

The mass production of social networking applications and websites has taken the United States (and much of Western Civilization) by storm. The recent rise in social networking applications and Web sites has had many affects on individuals, as well as business and organizations. Social networking, which allows its users, to connect with anyone else who has access to the programs (or simply the Internet), have allowed many people to maintain nearly constant contact with whoever they choose. This is evident in the amount of programs that have been developed and the number of individuals, businesses, and organizations who use these applications and Web sites.

In his essay, "Base and Superstructure," within the "Cultural Theory and Popular Culture: A Reader" edited and introduced by John Storey, Karl Marx states that, "It is not the consciousness of men that determines their being, but on the contrary it is their social being that determines their consciousness." This statement conveys that people thrive from social interaction and activities, not just their own singular consciousness. Social networking sites have made the connection of individuals to their society easier, yet this has, in turn, affected and changed society in several ways.

One of the ways society has changed due to the rise of social networking is that people now have accessibility to much more than just speaking to an individual. They can now converse, share pictures and videos, play games, share ideas, or start organizations or businesses with whoever takes interest. People can now also do many of these activities with more than one person at any given time, due to the convenience of the Internet.

The mass production of social networking has also changed the capabilities of organizations and businesses. These can now both reach a wider audience, which can be beneficial in many ways. For example, organizations can reach more volunteers or donators, and businesses can reach more customers or clients. Social networking sites also allow for individuals to contact these businesses easier and learn more about them.

There are, however, other people who benefit from the rise of social networking Web sites, including musicians and politicians. Musicians can benefit from these Web sites because it allows them to reach listeners with similar tastes and thus, find fans. It also gives them exposure, and the capabilities of social networking sites may allow for easier bookings or signing to labels for independent musicians or bands. Politicians can benefit from social networking Web sites through easier contact with their constituents. Politicians can now spread the news on bills up for vote or gain support in their races.

Overall, the mass production of social networking has allowed for a shift to a world where individuals are more in contact with others, yet in a different way than we have previously seen before. Social networking programs and Web sites have many benefits for individuals, organizations, and businesses, and the ease and widespread of these devices has allowed for most people in the United States to access and use these programs and Web sites regularly, thus affecting the social atmosphere of our country.

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