How Do Online Social Networks Affect Communication?

For class I read: How Do Online Social Networks Affect Communication? by: James Gardiner

 I have always been a big fan of Facebook. So when I read the negative things the author was talking about in this article it caught me slightly off guard. I was very surprised to hear he had never used Facebook, and yet he was writing a research paper on how it could possibly have negative affects on communication between teenagers and college students. Maybe he should have researched better by creating a profile and seeing what he thinks of it. However I agree with some of the statistics he found, I know a great number of people that log on frequently to Facebook. Also I have experienced this "Facebook trance" to the point that I stay on for a great deal of time. But I still think Facebook is an invaluable tool to keep in contact with close friends. Without online social networks it would be a lot harder to stay in touch with people. I also agree with the Article he found by Graham Bowley. That "online social networks have become a vital space for young people to express themselves and build their personal identities". I look at it as just another part of growing up in this world.  

Muslim Americans: Middle Class and Mostly Mainstream

For class I read Muslim Americans: Middle Class and Mostly Mainstream  Page 228-229

 I found this interesting because this was not the type of reading we usually do. Instead of a story to entertain or get a point across, this was just about the facts, like a report. However according to the facts I was surprised to learn that we have so many Muslims living in the United States. They seem to being doing fine living in the United States. Adopting our way of life, outlooks, values and attitudes. I can also see where they would be having problems getting Americans to accept them since the attack on the world trade center on 911. Nevertheless they seem to still be thriving just fine amongst us.