Naysayer Response
In “The Limits of Friendship,” writer Maria Konnikova explores the nature of meaningful human relationships, and discusses the impacts that social media might have on our ability to develop connection. The essence of Konnikova’s argument in her article is, “The time we invest in superficial relationships comes at the expense of more profound ones.” The point that she is making with this statement is that because virtual relationships are not as physically intimate as in person ones, they are somehow less meaningful. Arguably, I believe that every person in your life serves a purpose. Virtual relationships are no exception. Yet some readers may challenge my view by insisting that their most vital relationships were cultivated in the real world. While it is true that many relationships are founded in person, it does not necessarily rule out the other ways in which humans can develop intense connections.