The Conflict Concerning the Consumption of Convenient Content by: Aldrich Pesirla

It is without question that the Internet has made browsing content easier and more accessible. This is mainly the reason why people have become more dependent on it. We tend to cling to our online sources for taking in new information, whether it is about updates on our friends and family on social media sites, looking up and researching topics for academic purposes, or simply for entertainment.

The Internet also provides several other benefits to our learning. Not only is it easy and accessible, its diverse content shows us new things that spike our interest, further fueling our curiosity. And, curiosity paired with convenience urges people to learn more and become more. People now have a strong catalyst for self-improvement. Whether it be reading articles or watching tutorials on how to pursue their passion. And, this makes people more knowledgeable of the issues concerning not only their community, but the entire world. People have become more socially, environmentally, and politically aware. The exchange of ideas is astounding, and people are learning more and more.

In addition to this, not only is it convenient, it is also low-cost learning and easy entertainment. Looking up information and browsing content we wish to see has never been this quick. People have a greater chance to witness more things and be in control of what they want to see. Everything is very self-paced which leaves people more at ease.

However, no matter how great it is, this can be corrupted. The Internet is a database where everyone can contribute. There are sites that can be easily tampered with. And, aside from this, social media sites also serves as a platform for self-expression. This can lead to discourse and can make people have the power to spread misleading information or what we commonly call as, “fake news,” which tricks people into taking sides, making us more divided due to propaganda.

Furthermore, since we have become dependent on the Internet, we tend to forget double-checking our content. It is a must to always make sure our sources are legitimate and trustworthy. People must always ascertain that the events and information they have gathered align with other sources. Since the Internet provides many avenues for self-expression, matters can get too opinionated which can lead to people easily being convinced and swayed to prejudice.

There are benefits and risks to consuming content online. On one hand, it is convenient, accessible, quick, low-cost, offers diverse content which can spike interest and curiosity, and is a means for furthering self-improvement and self-expression. On the other hand, it can become easily tampered with, which can lead to opinionated and misleading information, which eventually fuels discourse and division due to prejudice and propaganda.  It is always important to ensure that the information and events we see online align with other sources. We must always double-check and assess whether or not the content we are browsing are valid and true.

The Internet is a tool that amplifies the human mind. It is a platform of self-expression and fuels our potential. Although, it can also be an avenue for corrupting and taking advantage of others. Nonetheless, it is an experience and an adventure. People must keep in mind that we must equip ourselves with the right mindset and principles in order to make sure we uphold the truth.