Recently, there has been heated discussion on the increasing popularity of the Internet. Some people emphasized that individuals are so indulged in Internet browse and surfing that they increasingly feel isolated from the reality. As someone says: “ the more friends one gets on line, the fewer he has around him.” The issue above is rather complex, for it involves a conflict between two divergent means of communication. The final judgment, I am afraid, rests upon a combination of three essential aspects.

　　To begin with, great changes have taken place in the scientific technology. As a result, Internet, the gem of the twentieth century, always provides people with the up-to-date information. With time goes by, it is natural that people, teenagers in particular, rely on computers for information rather than turning to their friends and relatives. What is more,the means of communication as a whole also undergoes certain dramatic transformation. Accordingly, the younger generation, with the aid of electric mailboxes, QQ or on-line chats, can successfully contact their parents or colleagues. Gradually, E-mails, the symbol of convenience, tends to replace such traditional means such as weekend dinners and celebrating parties Some observers might point out that the traditional means of communication will not fade away, and sooner or later people will be aware of their importance. Even so, the situation is not absolute, nor is it the most critical element. As a matter of fact, the distance between two locations, the time spent on transport vehicles as well as exhaustion from jobs will definitely compel people to choose more effective and convenient methods to keep contact with others.

　　To sum up, it is safe to conclude that along with the computer boom, a growing number of people will rely on Internet to communicate with others. However, while they are doing so, it is likely that they have fewer friends around them.(310 words)