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The distinction between "on-line" and "off-line" is conventionally seen as the distinction between computer-mediated communication and face-to-face Best Satellite Maps communication (e.g. Best Satellite Maps face time), respectively. "On-line" is virtuality, and "off-line" is reality (e.g. real life or meatspace). Slater Best Satellite Maps states Best Satellite Maps that this distinction is "obviously far too simple". To support his argument that the distinctions in relationships are more complex Best Satellite Maps than Best Satellite Maps a simple "on-line"/"off-line" dichotomy, he observes that some people draw no distinction between an "on-line" relationship, such Best Satellite Maps as indulging in cybersex, and an "off-line" relationship, such Best Satellite Maps as being pen-pals. He also argues that even the telephone can be regarded as an "on-line" experience in some circumstances, and that the blurring of the distinctions Best Satellite Maps between the uses of various technologies (such as PDA and mobile Best Satellite Maps telephone, television and Best Satellite Maps Internet, and telephone and Best Satellite Maps voice-over-IP) has made it "impossible to use the term 'on-line' meaningfully Best Satellite Maps in the sense that was employed by the first generation of Best Fall Dresses Internet research".[7]
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The distinction where "on-line" is seen as virtuality and "off-line" as reality is sometimes inverted, with "on-line" Best Satellite Maps concepts being used to define and to Best Satellite Maps explain "off-line" Best Satellite Maps activities, The Best Of Mainstream Blues rather than (as per Best Satellite Maps the conventions of the desktop metaphor with its desktops, trash cans, Best Satellite Maps folders, and so forth) Best Satellite Maps the other way around. Several cartoons by The Best Satellite Maps New Yorker Best Satellite Maps have satirized this. One includes Saint Peter asking for a user name and a password before Best Satellite Maps admitting a man into Heaven. Another illustrates Best Satellite Maps "the off-line store" where "All items are actual size!", where shoppers may "Take it home as soon as you Best Satellite Maps pay for it!", and where "Merchandise may be handled prior to purchase!". |
