In between classes, in the dining hall, and on the front lawn, students can be seen glued to their smartphones. While a network of highly connected social platforms has its benefits and drawbacks, the impact it has had on human development is undeniable.

According to an article by Environmental Conscience, the vast amounts of information that the internet holds can fuel immense growth. On the other hand, access to more information can be dangerous, addictive, and harmful.

Yes, the internet is detrimental.

Sophomore Connor Overgaard believes that overall, the internet is detrimental despite its benefits. He has an unorthodox view, which is that the internet’s effectiveness depends on the person. “I think what the internet does is it either amplifies your flaws or amplifies your smarts,” he said.

Essentially, if someone has the will to learn, they will use the internet as a learning platform. If they instead get sucked into social media and a web of misleading information, the internet can be extremely detrimental.

Overgaard also thinks that the internet can do the opposite of what it was intended to do. Instead of bringing people together to learn and grow, it can separate them. “In some cases, you can talk with people that are around the globe, from your own little house, or big house, but in settings where people are around other people, the internet becomes this separation [because everyone is on their own screen,” he said. What’s dangerous about the internet is when it becomes a distraction.

No, it is beneficial.

When the internet is used in a smart and efficient way, it can be one of the most valuable tools for learning. Sophomore Ford Reedy thinks that the internet is more of an instrument for learning than destruction.

“There are millions of people out there that are willing to help you, even if they don’t know you. You could basically get a college graduate level of knowledge on a subject if you use the internet and are smart about finding resources,” he said. If used in the right way, the internet is an extremely efficient way to explore. At the end of the day, the ball lies in the student’s court.