#Student at Yale University
*Interview of September 1, 1998
= How do you see the relationship between the print media and the Internet?
This is still being worked out, of course. So far, all I've been able to see is
that electronic media undermines the print form in two ways:
a) providing completely alternative presses that draw attention away from the
previous strongholds, and
b) forcing the print publications to spend resources trying to counteract this
trend. Both forms of media critique one another and proclaim their superiority.
Print media operates under a self-important sense of credibility. And the
electronic media operates under a belief that they are the only purveyors of
unbiased truth.
There are issues of niche and finance that need to be resolved. The Internet is
certainly a more accessible and convenient medium, and thus it would be better
in the long run if the strengths of the print media could be brought online
without the extensive costs and copyright concerns that are concomitant. As the
transition is made, the neat thing is a growing accountability for previously
relatively unreproachable edifices. For example, we already see e-mail addresses
after articles in publications, allowing readers to pester authors directly.
Discussion forums on virtually all major electronic publications show that
future is providing not just one person's opinion but interaction with those of
others as well. Their primary job is the provision of background information.
Also, the detailed statistics can be gleaned about interest in an advertisement
or in content itself will force greater adaptability and a questioning of
previous beliefs gained from focus groups. This means more finely honed content
for the individual, as quantity and customizability grows.
= How did using the Internet change your life?
The Internet has certainly been a distraction. ;) But beyond that, an
immeasurable amount of both trivial and pertinent information has been gleaned
in casual browsing sessions.
= How do you see the future?
In my personal future, I'd like to get a B.S., M.S., and M.Eng, working in the
industry for a while before moving on to write about the medium for some
reputable publication.
The future of the Internet in general I see as becoming more popular and yet
more fraught with conflict over the growth of commercialism and the perception
that the Net's devolutionary spirit has been undermined. There will also be a
need to deal with a glut of information - already we see Internet search engines
reinventing themselves to try to provide a more optimal and efficient portal.