The Shallows asks us a simple question, “Is the Internet changing the way we think?” It goes on to assert that it is. My proposal is to explore how the Internet is changing the way we shop, and how the Internet is changing the business environment for stores. Is it essential to have a website to succeed? Do you have to have a Twitter & Facebook page for your business? The Internet has had profound effects on retail stores in the United States. Just recently Border’s books, one of the nation’s largest book retailers, declared bankruptcy, blamed largely upon the rise of Amazon. The online space of E-commerce is eating away at many traditional “brick & mortar” businesses. Online shopping’s growth seems limitless, but there are in fact obstacles. American’s insistence on “instant gratification” allows local stores to capture some sales due to shipping times. Also, many want to touch what they are buying. Clothing stores allow customers to try on clothes before they buy, whereas online retailers cannot offer such service. However, some customers are using traditional stores as an “showrooms” where they can more easily test products before they ultimately buy online.

I may narrow my proposal in the next few days, but I will definitely stick to shopping online. Maybe I will focus more on the online business’ point of view.