GP TMJC 2023 StraitsTimes Primer 7 - The Search for Authenticity in an Interconnected World

THE SEARCH FOR AUTHENTICITY IN AN INTERCONNECTED WORLD ST-MOE News Outreach Programme 2023 Primer Resource 7 of 12 explore the implications of digital interconnectivity on the nature and quality of relationships today; consider the extent to which technology has deepened interpersonal understanding; and analyse the significance of authentic relationships and connections in today’s interconnected world. In this issue, we will: W e l c o m e t o t h e P r i m e r s e r i e s . H e r e y o u w i l l f i n d t h e w e e k l y P r i m e r a r t i c l e s a n d s o m e c u r a t e d r e s o u r c e s t o s u p p o r t t e a c h i n g a n d l e a r n i n g . D o e s g r e a t e r d i g i t a l c o n n e c t i v i t y n e c e s s a r i l y t r a n s l a t e t o s t r o n g e r r e l a t i o n s h i p s ? I n t h i s i s s u e , w e w i l l e x p l o r e i f i n t e r c o n n e c t i v i t y f o s t e r s d e e p a u t h e n t i c r e l a t i o n s h i p s . Scan or click on the QR codes to access the primers.

ST-MOE NEWS OUTREACH PROGRAMME 2023 PRIMER 7/12 BACKGROUND How can the Internet help to make our friendships stronger? Watch this video to find out. Does social media use impede meaningful interaction with people close to us? Read this article to find out. Do you agree with what U.S. teenagers say about their use of social media? Read this study to find out more. 80% of U.S. teens say that what they see on social media makes them feel more connected to what is going on in their friends’ lives. 45% of girls and 32% of boys say they feel overwhelmed because of all the drama on social media. How the Internet is Changing Friendship Teen Life on Social Media Social Media's Growing Impact

ST-MOE NEWS OUTREACH PROGRAMME 2023 PRIMER 7/12 PERSPECTIVES Floyer discusses different expectations of online and offline friendships, and argues that we do not necessarily need to be with people to connect with them. Can Online Friends be the Answer to Loneliness? Allen puts forth the case that digitalisation and technology are not a cure for people who feel lonely. Digitalisation and Loneliness Chen shares how we can choose to live life without being obsessed with social media. Take a Break from Social Media Lewis invites readers to consider if social withdrawal would still be problematic with new technologies and the metaverse. Online Worlds and Social Withdrawal Scan or click on the QR codes below to access the links. To what extent does digital connectivity help to foster authentic relationships? How far do you agree with the perspectives and how does each writer’s view support or challenge the others? As you read these articles, consider the following:

Resource Scarcity, Climate Considerations and Implications on Geopolitics Budget 2023 Wildlife Conservation The Value of International Sporting Competitions Today Regulation of Medical Technology Fame and Celebrity Culture The Search for Authenticity in an Interconnected World Stre