The Cat, The Dog and Web 2.0

One didn't have pets in India - one was more focussed on family and basic survival rather than pets.

Since I have been in the US, I have been paying more attention to them - not to mention that we spend about $30 billion dollars a year on them! For about 4 years now, I have had my first pet - a black, little heavy and beautiful cat by the name of Cleofatra. My wife grew up with a dog and that is coming next.

Many people like cats because:

• A cat is low maintenance
• Our convenience comes first
  
• A cat does not need active involvement
  
• It is usually a one-way interaction
  
• Gives you the feeling of companionship without any commitment or sacrifice on our part
  

A dog on the other hand is a far more involved commitment.

So when I look at all the Web 2.0 social networks today growing on line where one can easily 'add friends', I can't help thinking of cats and the characteristics listed above that they share with online social networks. On the other hand, to 'make friends' off-line, one is in a more involved commitment like that needed with a dog.

They do not have to be mutually exclusive - I have met many off-line who I befriended online. For me, they compliment each other and online networks are a excellent source of discovery.

Imagine: Add Spouse