Topic > The Scale of Cyberspace - 1238

Geographic space, as we know it, is undergoing significant changes in its perception. It is in a state of continuous redefinition caused by the increasing use of technologies that provide access to cyberspace. Although cyberspace has no physical dimensions, it is very real to many of us who use modern technology. Whether it is the Internet, accessible via computers or mobile phones, or other private networks such as MMOGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Games), cyberspace is increasingly the preferred place for social and business interactions. There is a dynamic relationship taking place, just as neighborhoods influence the cities around them, so cyberspace influences the geographic spaces of its users. For this reason, cyberspace should be included in the understanding of a comprehensive worldview. In “Cyberspace and Cyberculture” Ken Hillis describes cyberspace as “imaginary and metaphorical” (Hillis 324) and cyberculture as “the cultural practices that occur in cyberspace” (Hillis 324). To which he argues that cyberspace and cyberculture must exist together. Since cyberculture must occur in a space, this space is by definition virtual and therefore must not have physical dimensions (Hillis 324-325). However, cyberspace is still space: a place where people can gather and share ideas. This is especially true in reference to the Internet. Environments like Facebook.com, the endangered Myspace.com, and specialized sites like Last.fm, which cater to music fans, all operate in an attempt to lubricate human interaction and depend on those interactions to stay active. Their business depends on it. For example, Facebook.com is worth approximately $300 million per year (Forbes). Ken Hillis further characterizes cyber...... middle of paper ...... interactions are intrinsically linked at local and global scales. As workspaces become less tangible and social circles are no longer bound by geographic boundaries, the content of our daily interactions grows to include people and companies from all over the world. Consequently, cyberspace is an active factor in the reshaping of our world which is becoming increasingly complex as it hosts virtual networks. Works Cited Crang, Philip. "Local-Global". Presentation of human geographies. London: Arnold Publishers, 1999.Hillis, Ken. "Cyberspace and cyberculture". Presentation of human geographies. London: Arnold Publishers, 1999. Bertoni, Steven and Gell, Erin “By the Numbers: Billionaire Bachelors.” Forbes. March 29 2010 .