Final answer:
The rise of internet culture in the 2010s helped create a more connected society, but also exposed economic divides and changed the dynamics of news consumption and political engagement in the U.S.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rise of internet culture in the 2010s impacted American life in many ways. One of the significant effects was the creation of a more connected society. With the advent of fiber optic network backbones, 4G and 5G cellular networks, and platforms for social media, information exchange has become more image and video-focused, allowing Americans to consume media and receive news in real-time. This accessibility has led to people witnessing global events as they happen, such as the spring 2011 uprisings in the Arab world. However, the internet also resulted in information saturation, which has caused some to become overwhelmed or fatigued with current events, potentially leading to news avoidance or skepticism, and a diversified media landscape that offers endless choices can complicate the process of staying informed.
Despite concerns over echo chambers and misinformation, the ability to instantly communicate and share diverse perspectives contributes to the perception of the internet as a tool for societal connection. However, there are indications of increased economic divides with the digital media sphere more accessible to those who are wealthy, Caucasian, and English-speaking. The internet has also transformed how politics and government are viewed and interacted with, as social media plays an integral role in shaping narratives and public discussion.