Dismantling Society and Networked Individualism

Abstract

“Self”, which is considered to be the core of individual’s social behaviour has been divided into two complementary parts, i.e. online and offline, thereby increasing new patterns of social interactions, due to the prevalence of Social Network Services (SNS). The dividing line between online sphere and offline sphere of the self, continues to dissolve, as online activities become predominantly intertwined with almost every aspect of the social interactions. More than any other age group, adolescents are mainly subjected to the effects made by SNSs in modern societies. The study strive to understand how adolescents perceive their self and construct self-understanding within a networked society. It also studies the effects of that new self-conceptualization on modern day society, Sri Lanka. Grounded Theory was used as the methodology, and 8 cases were studied preceding a focus group discussion. Collected data, thus were analysed using codifying and concept categorization approach. Analysis reveals that, many unmet needs and inclinations of the offline life are strived to be satisfied with in the online life. Also, the skills needed for the offline existence of life have been decreased, due to the lack of awareness about the strategies necessary to perpetuate in the offline life. On the other hand, substantial portion of the monthly budget of an individual has subjected to be spent in order to maintain the online life. Though these effects seem to be quite negative on the society, there are some positive aspects as well. The online life is more accompanied with community activities and more politically engaged. Therefore, newly organized communities become strengthened in getting social support for many activities.