Is it necessary for everyone to have the Internet?

I believe that it is necessary for everyone to at least have access to the Internet, and to be computer/Internet literate. Almost everything is on the web now and it has become a learning tool. Without the Internet, the development of our country by technology would slow. You can use the Internet to look for a job, apply for a job, plan a vacation, look for a house, obtain news, run or advertise for a business, and much more. Without it, or without knowing how to use the Internet, one would be at a great disadvantage and fall behind as newer technology develops. Certain aspects of the Internet could be considered a luxury, such as Facebook or other social networking sites. It is a great way to keep in contact with friends and family, especially if that person is overseas and would result in long-distance fees for a telephone.

Being computer and Internet literate is often something that employers look for. Knowing how to navigate the web and use certain programs will increase marketability, putting a person at a higher advantage than others.

I don't believer that activities such as blogging or instant messaging are necessary, but more of a luxury. The web can be a powerful tool to keep the world connected. Rodman describes this as a "global village," a way to stay updated with other countries around the world via the Internet. Rodman describes that countries such as Saudi Arabia, Syria, China, North Korea, and Myammar allow citizens limited Internet access. This is a form of censorship, as people in this country are not being allowed to access certain information. 

It is not necessary for every person to have their own computer, rather to have access to a computer and to the Internet. We can see this in Internet cafes where the Internet is available and sometimes there are computers available for customers to use. It is nearly impossible for underdeveloped countries to thrive without access to the rest of the world. In the United States, not having or knowing how to use the Internet would put a person at a great disadvantage.