But then again, every situation is unique; murder isn't an online relationship, and an online relationship isn't for example, uh... whether you think it's right that prostitution is illegal in most places.

Which is why we can debate this topic but not murder. I'm not denying that they are unique situations in slightly different contexts, but cap'n_shanks' statement, whether they meant it like that or not, was wrong at it's base meaning.

I'm not ready to say it sright or wrong.

Yet I think its ridiculously stupid and I'd never want to take part in it.

So much of communication is non verbal, its done by seeing the other person. Your brains literally connecting. If you watch 2 conversations going synergy will be built between the people. One may lead with certain motions and the other will unconsciously mimic them. I feel a relationship defined by words and smilies alone, is no relationship. Its open to too much interpretation and takes part of the brain synergy, but not all of it.

I think your appearance matters too. A real life partner, that sees you everyday, often will act as an encouraging boost to your appearance.

I'm not going to say others shouldn't. Yet I'd prefer to disconnect and talk in person. If I have a relationship, I'd prefer most, if not all of it, to be done in person. I have no cell phone, I won't be getting one. Want to tell me something, actually tell me. I like things real.

I spend a lot of time at the computer. Reading, games, homework. That last thing I want to do is spend more time in front of the computer to socialize.

Yet look what I'm doing here? Socializing. I'd prefer it in real life, but, its all I have this moment.

I don't think its right or wrong, its your own personal decision. I'd just prefer one face to face. As opposed to screen to screen. Now if you meet up in real life, I'm fine with that. Yet if you never see them, I'd say no.

Some points in your post I agree with some don't.

To say it's ridiculous is, in all due respect because it is your opinion, a lil too harsh. Some people do rely on the internet to meet new people.

If someone if in strange circumstances what's so wrong with finding someone they want to talk to on a regular basis and enjoy it ?

Some goes for those who may be overly self consious. if someone was to find someone to get to know them personality wise first, rather than jumping straight in meeting up becuase of shyness, then surely that can 't be wrong. It gives people the chance for the other person to get to know them as a person and not what they look like or act like etc ?

In my opinion, love has no limits. If someone wishes to fall in love with someone around the world then so be it. If they are happy and they both enjoy talking to each other then it's all good. These days it's not just a computer screen... There's web camera to show movement and for people to see each other. There's microphone to hear both people so it is like a convosation face to face. Not to mention the rapid technology with mobile phone and such.

People are creating these things for a reason... Becuase they know that the internet, like anything else, will increase people's chances to find someone to love. So they make it as realistic as possible, and it doesn't feel like people are talking to a screen.

I believe in meeting people from the internet to date, but obviously a relationship would never work without meeting the person ever. I dont hesitate about it at all, as lana said it can happen, i have been happy with people of the internet, we hav made sure we knew each other before we've met etc.
Infact love to me would usually come naturally at the right time and place, however mixing with people on the net gives more chance of finding someone, does it not?

Well said Kat

it is yeah, im just saying its not bad as people make it out to be,
cause not everyone off the net is a weirdo : /