‘The current internet expansion has instilled a different set of cultural values which are often in conflict with traditional values.’

Internet expansion has been the key pillar of globalisation of values and cultures instilling a distinct set of values in people. These values often come in conflict with traditional values and create cleavages and discontentment in society.

Cultural values due to internet expansion in conflict with traditional values:

1. The Internet allows us freedom of speech and expression which is also misused for abuse and spread of hate which is against the traditional values of being kind and compassionate in speech and actions.

2. The Internet has propagated fake news and a culture of post truth which is against the traditional values enshrined in Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, of leading people from falsehood to truth.

3. The Internet has also been instrumental in propagating the values of individualism prevalent in the west which goes against the traditional values of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (Maha Upanishad) which sees the whole world as one family.

4. Glorification of self: promoting vanity and narcissism is also seen which goes against the traditional values of selflessness and helping others.

The Internet has also imbibed some positive cultural values which progressively go against the orthodox traditional values of gender, caste and class-based inequities. E.g.: the revolutionary #metoo movement powered by the Internet.

The Internet by itself is a neutral arbiter of values, as people we can positively shape it by following community guidelines of social media, go for fact checking by organisations like Factly and not promote divisive agendas.