There are a few sides to this social-networking site. One is the effect on the users of the site (especially the younger users). Robin Abcarian points in a L.A. Times article:
For millions, social networking sites such as MySpace, Facebook and Xanga represent the perfect intersection of art, commerce and the human need to connect. Musicians, comedians and film studios use the sites to create fan bases. Advertisers buy space on them.
Yet at the same time, there's growing concern among some parents and school administrators that such websites encourage kids to share salacious stories and sexually charged photos and perhaps leave them vulnerable to predators. Many schools have sent notices to parents to be aware of possible problems. Others have lectured students on social etiquette and safety on the Internet.
Another side is the business success the site is so far. As reported on NewFactor.com:
Today, the statistics are staggering: 43 million users so far, 150,000 new ones every day. Ten percent of all advertising impressions across the entire Internet happen on MySpace -- twice as many page views as Google. And in the wake of its recent acquisition, MySpace's growth has only accelerated.Is MySpace the next evil to ban from children? Is MySpace a place for advertisers to start looking towards?
These sites are very popular with middle and high school students. These on-line activities of middle and high school students need to be monitored for their safety. They need to be trained how to use the technology wisely, not just banned from access.
MySpace can be a very important tool for new bands to get free publicity. MySpace can be a place for a budding poet to try out a new poem and get feedback. MySpace can help kids who for various reasons have to relocate with parents keep in touch with friends back home making the transition less traumatic.
Leave comments and let me know how you feel.
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