Is World Wide Web Redefining Relationships? – A Reflection

By Preethy Alex

New Delhi Sept 28, 2006 (CBCI News):

It is believed that marriages are made in heaven. For Catholics, marriage is a sacrament, both permanent and sacred. Jesus had declared, “What God has joined, let no man put asunder.” However, with the advent of computer age, particularly the internet age, human relationships have undergone a sea change.

A recent example of this change is when last week a couple formalized its divorce over the Internet, with a judge officiating, in what is supposed to be the first-of its kind in the country.. A hi-tech video screen with Internet connectivity and speakers were installed at the ASJ Jagotra’s court at Karkardooma Courts Complex and the court sat for an online hearing.

Both parties were questioned on the reasons for separation and also whether they had any second thoughts. Following this, the court, pronounced the divorce decree. The procedure, carried out under the Hindu Marriage Act, could just lend a new meaning to the term “quickie divorce’’ in this country.

This was just an instance where the internet was used as a channel to formally put an end to a relationship, but there are instances where it has contributed to the collapse as well. Though the Internet is viewed by many as an instrument to nurture and further human relationships, it’s true that it has radically altered the fabric of human society if not destroyed it.

The Internet is definitely a gift of the modern society with its numerous benefits such as its low cost accessibility, less time consumption and its speed as opposed to the traditional snail-mail way, but there is a darker side to this picture as well. One of them being the rifts caused in relationships, as there is no personal touch involved and does not serve as an effective outlet for emotions.

Family members feel rejected as one of them is glued to the computer screen most of the time and has caused many a marriages to fall apart. It has lessened face to face interaction among people thus widening the gap between two individuals instead of reducing it. People now indulge in online chatting and e-mailing rather than pursuing meaningful community activities or hobbies.

A recent survey revealed that the number of internet users has touched an alarming figure of 37 million in India. The figure is startling, considering the fact that illiteracy is still rampant in many parts of the country.

While the Internet is a great boon, due to its abuse, a number of problems have arisen. These could be minimized if one uses it judiciously and wisely. We should not forget that human relations are the most prized possessions on this earth and through technological advances such as the Internet, we should cherish them rather than damage.