When it came to the concept of dating, age old policies
dictated that one would pick up the phone, flip open the famous little black
book and after much banter had ensued, perhaps a date would be agreed upon, in
the most gentlemanly fashion. Today, the phone still plays a role, as does a
tablet or a laptop, and of course all the social networking sites that go with
them that facilitate the dating process.
“I personally find that social media is a fantastic pool of
information, whether you need the scoop on people or anything else. When it
comes to online dating, you can find out anything you want to know. But that
can also be abused by people who do not respect the ‘rules of engagement’, and
as such, at times it’s better not to dip one’s toes in the water,” says
entrepreneur Shanu Kodelkar of Dona Paula.
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Some, of course, some might argue that this sounds a tad
like stalking. However, the counter argument posed by some is that it is no
more than what used to be undertaken in the past, i.e. ask friends and
associates for information on the person of interest before approaching them.
“Some might say that romance goes out the window, but in an
age where there is hardly any time to spare on anything, one can’t help but
wonder whether the most important factor in decision making for some is convenience. That being said, it’s
not necessarily the safest way to meet people,” says Angelica Soares, a content
writer from Margao.
The counter to this comes through views that emanate from
the last bastions of the hopeless romantics of the 21st century. “I don’t think
that anything can be a substitute for interpersonal relations. I get why some
people might be drawn into the concept of online romance, but can it truly
replace physical proximity. Even on the scale of security, it rates very low.
You have no idea who you’re interacting with and how could you build into a
comfort zone,” says Christina Miranda, an educator from Panjim.
All things and views considered, with Valentine’s Day right
around the corner, one can’t help but wonder whether when it comes to taking a
plunge into romance, it will involve the proverbial mouse belling the cat, or a
click of a mouse that will get the job done.
