I just returned from the New Media Research Breakfast hosted by the Institute for New Media Studies. Yoshikazu Suzuki, a School of Journalism and Mass Communication graduate student, shared his perspective on "Seeing the Internet Through the Eyes of a Young Scholar." To simply state -- IT WAS GREAT!

One of the most intriguing parts of his presentation was this video. It is a MUST SEE if you think about social networking, dabble in it online, or consider it one of your main food groups.

Take a moment to look at the Social Media Revolution video at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVXKI506w-E

Some of the figures are mind-blowing and definitely started my brain to head into overdrive. I'd love to know what you think about the video. Please feel free to comment.

The other extremely mind-blowing topic Yoshi spoke about was Japan's fascination with anime. He shared one example of how computer-generated music spurred real musicians to cover the songs and it resulted in a concert of 50,000+. In addition, Yoshi noted how there's a game in Japan where people develop relationships with avatars and questioned if that could be considered "true love."

While I was sitting there, I couldn't help but ponder the future of interpersonal relationships in the workplace. If the basis of relationships is not with "real" people in face-to-face situations, how will tomorrow's generation deal with conflict resolution, learn to empathize, and compromise with their colleagues?

A lot to think about.