Well, you asked for it, so here it comes.

I feel that that the internet is like an extremely useful, multipurpose tool. And like many tools, it can be used to build things--or to tear them down. If you use the tool in the right way, you can get a lot of good things accomplished. If you misuse it, then the opposite holds true.

As far as using the Internet as a "babysitter;" it is at least somewhat safer than plopping your children down in front of the TV, with all the safeguard tools available, such as Net Nanny or Cyber Patrol. Parents can have a little more control over it when they aren't there. I personally think that neither of the two mediums should be used as a babysitter; most kids need watchful supervision to keep them out of trouble. Children are resourceful; they are very good at getting into mischief no matter what safeguards parents have in place.

I have used the internet for entertainment, finding information, news, communication and shopping, among other things. I can't imagine getting along without it now, even though I've only personally had access to it for about five years. It isn't an inherently good or bad thing, it is a tool...and a very useful one.

Gri"now I gotta go read Mr. T versus Hansen again. Love it when he throws them for wrecking the youth center!"shny