The E-Self: Am I Still ME? The Influence of the Internet on Identities

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the question: “How does the internet negatively influence our identity?” The relevance of this question lies in the fact that internet is playing an increasingly important role in many people’s lives, and will only continue to increase in the future. The fact that this is happening merits research into the area of the impact this internet usage has on people’s daily lives. This thesis uses Google, Facebook and dating websites as examples of influence both negative and positive. The ultimate focus, however, is on the negative influences. Using Alan Gewirth’s theory of agency as criteria for what it means to be negatively influenced, it is established that negative influence of the internet is wrong and should be prevented. This prevention can best be supported by creating a heightened awareness to how the internet influences its users. The fact that the internet has the ability to influence people negatively means that especially in the future people need to take extra care not to become too dependent on the internet.