History of the development of social networks

the article presents a detailed review of the history of the emergence and subsequent spread of the most popular social networks in the global information space. Attention is paid to the reasons and prerequisites for the emergence of the first social platforms, and the process of their formation and evolution in different countries and regions is described. The paper reveals and analyzes the functional features of the most widespread social networks today, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and others, and highlights the key differences in the mechanisms of their interaction with users. In this context, the theory of “six handshakes”, which describes the phenomenon of intimacy between strangers through a limited number of contacts, is examined in detail and emphasizes how social networks have enhanced its relevance and practical application in everyday life. The article also considers and analyzes in detail the theory of connectivism, which emphasizes the importance of networking and knowledge sharing as a key mechanism for the progressive development of society in the era of digitalization. The authors show how, thanks to social networks, there is a continuous and rapid exchange of information, which contributes to the emergence of new educational and professional practices, such as online learning and distance education. Special attention is paid to the analysis of news content published on the pages of social networks. The final part of the article considers promising directions for the development of media communications in the modern digital environment characterized by the acceleration of information flows and constant technological innovations. Conclusions are drawn about trends and opportunities for further development of social platforms, their adaptation to new challenges and audience needs in the context of globalization of media space.

communications, connectivism, social network, content, media communications, digital environment, media space, social platform, internet, online learning