"Homo communicans" w świecie wirtualnym

Abstract

The subject of the very considerations is the virtual reality understood in the categories of a communicative means in which man functions as a sender and receiver. What is at issue constitutes, above all, the features of cyberspace which differ from the communication in the real world. We define the nature of the virtual world and describe its basic qualities. We point to the transition from the face-to-face communication to the interface-interface one which causes changes in communication between people. The way people communicate in cyberspace influences the nature of social bonds. The reason for this change is the virtual space, specific language, mutual behaviours, and organization of network hierarchy. The Internet contacts constitute the supplement to real contacts and are not their substitute or alternative option. The article also presented the areas of changes and dangers connected with the development of information society. Man communicating in cyberspace is a consumer. The other danger is an ambiguous understanding of truth — as a virtual and real truth. Thus, the values as well as cultural and social norms change.