Online Relationship in Singapore

“This is a virtual world. This is a world inventing itself. Daily, landmasses form and then submerge…I’m looking for something, it’s true. I’m looking for meaning inside the data. That is why I trawl my screen like a beachcomber – looking for you, looking for me…I’ve been looking for us both all my life”

Introduction

Rapid advancements in technology, specifically in the realm of ICT, means that life in modern times has changed drastically. What once had to be done with much effort, manually, can now be achieved with ease, at the touch of a button. What was once analog is now digital. Due to its ubiquity and intelligence, ICT has greatly shaped the way our lives are today. One aspect that has doubtlessly been transformed is the way in which we engage in social and interpersonal relationships. Conversations that were once only possible face to face or over expensive phone-calls can now be carried out with people residing a few continents away at very low cost and immediate convenience using programs such as Skype.

Digital Love

One specific aspect of human relationships that is being changed by ICT is romance and dating. ICT has opened up new options for courtship that were unheard of before recent years. Before the past decade, romantic courtship was conceived as a very personal experience that required both involved parties to be physically present. However, due to the convenience and advancements brought about by the advent of ICT, the social phenomenon of online dating and online relationships are now becoming increasingly normal.

People can get to know each other through chat rooms or online dating websites, and feelings can blossom without the involved parties ever meeting beforehand in real life. We can meet, greet and chat for hours to strangers from Ohio without leaving our room in Singapore, via personal advertisement or matchmaking websites such as Match.com. This new method of courtship has apparently transcended geographical, physical and even cultural boundaries that once seemed rigid and unbending.

Factors promoting online romance and dating

This new method of “faceless” courtship that negates the need for physical contact has opened a new window of opportunity for several groups of people. These people include those who may be shy or self-conscious over their physical appearance, and urbanites living in fast-paced societies that leave little time for real life dating. The anonymity of online dating may be a factor to boost courage, representing a playground for people to experiment with their personalities. The ease of access and speed of online dating also suits hectic and mobile lifestyles of people living in cities. As such,