Bloggers and tech geeks make good neighbors
Far from being the overweight nerds living in their parents’ basement, it turns out that tech geeks, including bloggers and social network users, are valuable members of society. No, really.
There’s a definite stereotypical image most people have of geeks: overweight, shortsighted, unable to form meaningful relationships, not keen on social contact. But these are all misnomers, with geeks in this day and age just as likely to be well-rounded members of their local community, with partners, kids, and a willingness to help family, friends, and neighbors alike.
This supposed revelation comes courtesy of the Pew Internet Project. Its study shows that rather than segregating people, the use of technology can make people good neighbors to have. At the very least, an overuse of the Internet or mobile phones doesn’t have any ill-effect, and it could actually mean people are more likely to be willing to lend a hand.
As ReadWriteWeb reports, bloggers are almost 80 percent more likely to do favors for their neighbors than some other groups. However, they are 50 percent less likely to lend neighbors money. Which either means bloggers are mean, low-earners, or more aware of the low chance of ever seeing that money again. I’d vote for all three of the above.
There’s an argument to be had over whether heavy Internet users are more or less likely to get out and partake in other activities. This study suggests that there is a 72 percent chance of people who regularly use the Internet and own a mobile device belonging to “a charitable organization, a youth sports league, or a religious group.”
This can, of course, be explained by the fact that people who work on the Internet or spend their free time on the Web often have a desire to leave the house. Because, contrary to popular belief, we’re not all smelly hermits who cannot look after ourselves. I am exactly that but most clearly aren’t.
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