In the rapidly developing world of the 21st century the World Wide Web more commanly known as the Internet is fast becoming the most effective, efficient and popular form of communicating with people the world over. Concepts such as "Global Village" have seen a rapid growth during the latter parts of the 20th century, primarily due to the Internet which connects people from all walks of life, and all parts of the world. Though the internet is used by all segments of society the use of internet among young people is increasing at a massive pace. Recent surveys show that nearly 50% of the total users of internet comprise of young people aged 12 - 25. The keen interest which many governments the world over have taken in increasing computer literacy among school children, and the availability of internet facilities even in rural villages has resulted in increasing the rate of internet users among the younger generation. Yet the reaction that this progress has brought forth is two fold. While one segment of society seems to be of the view that the internet brings benefits to young people yet another segment believe that the internet poses many threats to children and thereby is unhealthy for their growth. My personal view though is that the internet does indeed provide a mass of information and knowledge to young people and thereby opens a world of possibilities unto them.

One of the main reasons as to why I feel that the internet is indeed a good source of information, entertainment, and communication for young people is due to the fact that it offers a wide array of knowledge ranging from science, medicine, arts, culture and fashion to global issues, and sports by a mere click of a mouse. Hence young people are exposed to a vast amount of knowledge which proves beneficiary in their school studies as well as to the growth of their own intellects. At a time when reading books is fast becoming a thing of the past the internet has proved to be succesful substitute. Children have the ability to research deeper into their academic studies and even have access to certain types of information which they are unable to find in their school libraries. For example if one was interested to find out the origin of the umbrella it would be very much easier to 'google' it up rather than search through piles of books and more often than not come up with a mere nothing! Hence the internet not only provides useful information to children it also develops their natural intelligence levels.

I also believe that the internet is good for young children as it provides vast opportunities for young people to communicate with their peers from all parts of the world. Social networks such as Facebook, MySpace etc provide excellent platforms for young people to interact with each other in an easy and affordable manner. Young people are not only given the opportunity to interact with each other but they are also given the chance to exchange their views and ideas on any and all contemporary subjects through blogs and forums. This in turn increases their thinking power and communication skills and thus proves beneficial in the long run. Many young people are given the chance to express their frustrations, problems etc and share them with people of all ages and denominations through the internet.

Yet another reason as to why I feel that the internet is beneficial for young people is due to the fact that it opens a world of possibilities for them. Many job opportunities in the world over can be found through the internet and thus young people get the chance to explore yet unchartered waters. They are made aware of opportunities that many of them were thus far unaware of. Hence it not only opens them to a world of possibilities but also gives them the chance to realize their dreams and aspirations.

Hence I feel that the internet does indeed bring many benefits to young people. Yet likewise it must be remembered that it is something which has to be used in a responsible and correct manner thus preventing the misuse of this invaluable tool.
