BLOG # 8

 Diffusion: Instant Messaging 

To think that there was a time that instant messaging didn't exists seems like such a foreign concept to me. To be able to instantly get in contact with anyone, anywhere, at anytime is a part of my life that I have definitely taken for granted, but couldn't live without. But just like every innovation and technological advancement, there was a time before this existed. 

The Spread 

In the early stages of instant messaging, it costs money per message sent. The spread of instant messaging became big as smart phones started to appear. Now, there are multiple channels and platforms in which instant messaging takes place. This has become a part of everyday life, this article not only list just a small

percent of the unimaginable amount of instant messaging platforms, but also counts the number of users on them. These numbers are in the hundreds of millions, and some, even reach a billion. That is a huge percentage of the worlds population. Clearly, the spread of instant messaging was successful, but there was still push back. 

The Downside 

With every new innovation, there are negatives that led to some push back. While I have never considered the negatives that have come from this, as this article explores, I don't remember a time in life that instant messaging didn't exist. For those who lives in a time before instant messaging had experienced a more personal way of interaction, one that takes form of physically and oral contact, where expressions and feelings are explored far beyond words. It is shown through body language and tone of voice, something that instant messaging is lacking. The rise of instant messaging also increases distractions and has shorten attention spans. New innovations offer an instant gratification that not all aspects of life can guarantee. This has caused younger generations to have less patience and shorter attention spans. The rise of popularity, has also caused a rise in misuse, people using these communication channels to spread hate and harm. 

Just as with any new form of technology, there are positives and negatives. In the case of instant messaging, I feel the convince of communication alone out-way the downsides. However, I do think it is important to stay aware of the harm it may cause.