The Value of the Internet to our Knowledge and Thinking Essay

The Value of the Internet to our Knowledge and Thinking - Essay Example The internet is a broad and intricate network of interlinked computers. The exponential growth of this huge, artificial information system has been a significant factor that motivates research scientists to adopt a new angle on how they view the human brain. According to Carr, the brain is highly adaptable since it can imagine the mechanics of using a new technology even before the technology exists (Carr 129). Apparently, the human brain and the internet have a lot of similarities. For starters, they both are highly non-random interconnected network that enhance the communication between distant elements. Such a similarity may seem remarkable given the huge disparity between the two. One possibility provided by scientists is that fact that both the internet and human brain have evolved to meet the general fitness measure. Both the human brain and the internet are highly effective in processing information and can rapidly adapt. The human brain is more like a muscle. The more one exercises it the stronger, flexible and versatile it becomes. The internet can be likened to a weight training machines for the brain while books are analogous to free weights. Each avenue has its merits, but when used efficiently one works the brain harder. Weight machines are more directive as they persuade a person to think that he or she has worked harder though with minimal effort. The same case applies to the internet, it usually shows us what we think we know and while misinforming us at the same time.