Instant messaging are an extension of the human mouth because they are a tool of conversation. Its method of communication is through text.
The 4 laws of the of the Tetrad, phrased into questions, are:
What is enhanced?
Instant messaging (IM) enhances communication without any charge. It is convenient for fast-paced society as we can still chat with friends eventhough we are busy. We can catch up with multiple people at a time. IM also promotes socializing with clients or potential partners amongst workers while accomplishing task at hand. IM appears to satisfy our needs to connect with our loved ones.
What is made obsolete?
However, IM affects communication in real life, as quick and prompt texting still allows time to think of a response or editing it before hitting "SEND". With IM easily accessible, people seldom receive/make a call anymore unless the person is "offline". Personally, I've sent instant messages to my roomate, especially when we're both listening to music through headphones. This clearly shows how IM reduces "face-to-face oral communication". And no, that doesn't include having personal photo as IM avatar. IM distorts reality as a person might not have the same personality in real life compared to online persona. Not only that, written letters sent though the postal service is made obsolete in this information age.
What is retrieved that had been made obsolete earlier?
The new opportunities created by growth of IM is how people yearn for physical contact and oral communication with loved ones. As people get tired and confused with IM which the text language is increasing in abbreviations, people prefer a proper conversation. In a way, all the emotes of "hugs" or "mwah" does not satisfy human's longing for physical show of affection.
What is reversed when pushed to extremes?
The over-extension of IM will lead to increase in real life catching up or oral commucation.
References:
http://www.indranet.org/
http://www.masternewmedia.org
http://socialmediatrader.com
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