Question

The search process for products on the internet is generally faster than when people go shopping in physical stores. However, the amount of information, the countless possibilities, and alternatives on the internet are enormous. This, in turn, takes a lot more time to dig through than when people go shopping physically. What do we call this phenomenon?

a. Speed paradox
b. Internet dilemma
c. Information overload
d. Shopping complexity

Answer 1

The situation where the large volume of information and choices on the internet leads to a more time-consuming search process is referred to as c) information overload.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phenomenon being described, where the plethora of options and information available on the internet actually makes the search process feel more time-consuming compared to shopping in physical stores, is known as information overload. This occurs because the ease of obtaining information online leads to a situation where there is too much data for one to efficiently process and make decisions. Economists describe this scenario as dealing with 'imperfect information,' since we rarely have all the data we need to make perfect decisions. Consequently, despite the vast improvements in communications technologies and the interconnectedness brought by globalization, the increase in information and choices often doesn't translate into faster decision-making or simpler shopping experiences.