Janna Malamud Smith

Janna Malamud Smith is a clinical social worker and author of the book Private Matters: In Defense of the Personal Life. She argues in the following viewpoint that the Internet is blamed for social problems that existed long before the Internet was invented. She asserts that the Internet actually makes it easier for people to connect with one another in a society where suburban sprawl has fragmented communities. In addition, Smith maintains that people are attracted to the Internet because it allows them to interact with others while still enjoying privacy and solitude.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What personal example does Smith use to illustrate why human contact is not always preferable to interaction over the Internet?
2. Why does the author think that using the Internet is preferable to watching...