Why Twitter?

I only started Twittering about a month ago, but already I am starting to see its potential. There is something in the human psyche that prefers short, constant bursts of communication to long ones. Twitter serves this desire and then some by REQUIRING short bursts (maximum of 140 characters – that’s about a sentence-and-a-half). What is interesting about Twitter is that it is mostly meaningless communication. That is, much of what is said on Twitter covers mundane topics like “I found a sweater under my bed!” and “Just had a cup of great jo from Starbucks.” and “Learning ‘Sweet Child O Mine’ on Guitar Hero”. But it is just that type of “meaningless” communication that builds communities. Most of my most valuable friendships were forged at parties, bars, and work while discussing the day-to-day minutia of life. Very few of my friendships were cemented in “meaningful” conversations.

So, I view Twitter as a means of breaking the ice and sharing new ideas with prospective acquaintances and friends. It is a way to enter people’s lives and positively affect each other through short conversations and topics of mutual-interest. It is a way to build new business relationships and strengthen old friendships. People revel in proximity, and Twitter has the potential to bring our digital selves closer to each other.