Reference:  Kerness, Bonnie.  “Solitary Confinement Torture in the U.S.” 1998.  http://sonic.net/~doretk/Issues/98-09%20FALL/solitary.html

            In her article about the implementation of solitary confinement and sensory deprivation in federal and state prisons, Kerness argues that the array of negative side effects potentially realized by those subjected to this form of treatment far outweighs the benefits afforded to society by isolating individuals convicted of the most serious crimes.  Though she does not directly criticize the practice of enforced isolation, going so far as to cite its religious roots in the Quaker philosophy behind solitary introspection and reform, Kerness seems to find an inexplicable link between solitary confinement and excessive forms of violent, active torture (verbal and physical).  Right or wrong, Kerness’ opinion most certainly lends itself to an interesting discussion of networking in human society, its importance to our everyday survival as a species, and our human right to it.

            While Kerness references the formal introduction of solitary confinement to the United States’ federal justice system as having happened in the early 1800s, I cannot help but think the idea itself was first conceived and practiced many centuries ago, though I admit I have no hard evidence to support this.  Regardless, it is interesting to realize that at some point in time it was decided that one of the worst punishments to inflict upon another human being was to deprive them, through execution or confinement, of the ability to freely communicate and essentially network with other people.  Ultimately, it can be argued that social networking provides a basis for everything we value as humans (love, learning, politics, money, freedom, etc.).  Perhaps our understanding of human nature and the general actions we take as a species can be best achieved by understanding the degree to which networks influence our survival.