Definitions
Social Capital Surveys
Acknowledgments


Introduction
The evolution of communication technology has enabled the entire world to interact and exchange information regardless of distance or time zones. Distance first became irrelevant with the advent of the telegram, followed by the phone, printed media, television and now the Internet. However, unlike other means of communication, we have yet to discover the potential implications of the Internet on socialization. Many academics are currently debating whether people will become more isolated and absorbed by this new technology, or more socially active. It is too soon to speculate on the overall possibilities of the Net, however it is clear that the Internet eases global communication on a large scale because it is fast and cheap, and removes the traditional barrier of time. The Internet, therefore, although it has been criticized for reducing face-to-face interaction, actually advances communication between individuals and groups. This medium of communication allows distance relatives and friends to connect, as well as it facilitates the creation of new friendships. I will therefore argue that the Internet does not diminish face-to-face interaction, but actually complements it. People enjoy interaction with one another in person, and the Internet is simply a tool to keep in touch with the wider social network; as a result, the Net actually increases total social capital.