Analysis of The Loneliness of the Interconnected

Charles Seife, the author of this article, is able to convey a strong message throughout this text.  He writes to teach the reader that people hold onto their beliefs with a firm grasp and most attempts to challenge these beliefs only strengthen the original beliefs.  Seife continues to discuss the influence of the internet on people’s beliefs and how a lack of isolation can lead people to think that their belief is, in fact, the truth.  Throughout these arguments, the author is able to use many examples and statistics to back up and prove the information he presents.  The examples are, at first, introduced and detailed, then subsequently related to the argument which was stated.  For example, the fictitious disease Morgellons was defined for the reader and then Seife was able to dissect the situation and prove that the Morgellons case was an example of how people can influence each other’s beliefs.  The progression of this particular case was detailed in the reading to show how people’s and group’s perceptions were changed over time.  Later in the article, the author lists many different groups of people who hold unique set of ideals and beliefs.  This list, which includes groups that would be considered extremist by many, is used very effectively to prove that almost any belief can be expanded through the internet or other forms of interaction.  Also, these examples add validity to the statement previously mentioned that when multiple people share a belief, the belief is strengthened.  Without these repetitive and informative examples, it is unlikely that the reader would be able to grasp the ideas which are brought forth in the article.  These examples come from history, which has already happened and had an effect, which is a useful way for the author to prove that people are strengthening their beliefs, rather than challenging them.