Using Virtual Social Networks and Social Tolerance among Youths in Tehran

Abstract

Difference and diversity are phenomena existing from the very first days human communities have been formed. Under such condition, what provides for necessity of coexistence between different individuals and groups to become possible is tolerance. On the other hand, wide range development in terms of communication and providing information are going on in today's world. This evolution called by many as revolutionary evolution in the field of communication and a starting point to a new paradigm in the life of today's communities. The most important and obvious product of it is the internet and virtual social media. Meanwhile, political and cultural effects and consequences of such technologies especially virtual social networks also have found importance. So, the question asked in present study is related to one of the indicators of healthy social, political, and cultural life and effect of virtual social networks on it: “How using virtual social networks affect on the level of social tolerance in four religious, political, ethnical, and moral dimensions among Tehran citizens?" Statistical population of the research includes youths residing in Tehran. According to Chochran's formula and with highest variance, sample size has been included 400 persons. Using multistage and random systematic sampling methods, statistical population has been specified; and, after verification of validity and reliability of the questionnaire, data have been collected through survey and then analyzed. According to the findings, variables of social dialogue, managing usage made of the network, and level of usage made of networks separately affect on dependent research variable. So, it can be concluded that cyberspace and social networks provide the opportunity for communication and dialogue as an appropriate mechanism to strengthen cultural, social, and political bonds among subcultures and different groups in society. Hence, tolerance among them would be promoted.