by Mona Lisa Safai

Created on: September 18, 2008

In our contemporary society, technology is so deeply embedded in how we communicate from cell phones, headsets, computers, CDs, fax machines, scanners, etc. Even how we pay for our groceries has changed from using the cashier to self-check out that interpersonal interaction has become restricted and limited to a certain degree. In the workplace, email is used without a second thought throughout the day despite the fact the coworker we're sending the email to sits in the next cubicle. In our personal lives, technology is used as the medium we rely on for not only efficiency of information, security from an overwhelming world, and as a conveyer of our thoughts, ideas, and emotions.

Online dating is a concept that necessitates the many individuals who want to fulfill their fast paced lives but also do not want to spend their time in environments which will bring wasted, repetitive results. Americans tend to be competitive and goal oriented, in general. In the past, traditional approaches to dating were to meet through families, friends, mutual acquaintances, school, work, place of worship, and other social organizations. Additionally, individuals met in parties, bars, and cafes, etc.

While individuals still utilize these old fashioned ways of meeting people in the real world, technology offers a more focused outlet in the virtual world. The online dating services hone in on one's interests, ambitions, temperaments (depending on the detail of the site), and attempts to match individuals in accordance to personality. It's far from perfect. But, each individual can prioritize their desired match in the privacy of their own home. One can also decide how forward he/she wants to be in approach and willingness to risk. These are decisions we all make in the real world as well. In the virtual world, the challenge is still there. However, one calculates the risks and costs with a little more caution.

Before the rise of online dating, the scenario was usually the same. Either one found his/her match or not. Or one just settled. With online dating available, many individuals who have a difficult time dating are making the effort to ease into the dating world. Those who live in the fast paced, 25 hour a day, caffeine culture world, not a minute to waste also have found themselves dating online. The efficiency works for them.

It is a simple analysis: The same person can spend the same amount of time looking for their compatible match in the real world as he/she does in the virtual

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