The Social Network captures several social and economic ramifications of computing, especially those related to automation, globalization, and the winner-take-all scenario. Initially developed at Harvard, Facebook expanded to other universities, such as Stanford and Boston University, with the goal of fostering connections between people. Millions of people connected using the platform's automated social networking, which echoes how computing promotes speedier and worldwide collaboration.
Sean Parker pushed Mark Zuckerberg to take Facebook outside academic institutions to reach a worldwide audience as the site gained traction. Thanks to information technology, this illustrates how businesses may compete globally across various marketplaces. Facebook hitting a million subscribers in the film is a metaphor for how quickly digital platforms may grow, disrupting old sectors and fostering new international rivalry.
By the movie's end, Facebook's $25 billion valuation and 500 million members in 207 countries demonstrate the enormous power of digital platforms. This growth is similar to how technology can build international networks and markets. The movie also serves as an example of the winner-take-all phenomenon since Zuckerberg's early takeover of Facebook enabled him to accumulate riches rapidly, mirroring how many essential players in the tech industry frequently control most of the market.
Overall, The Social Network demonstrates how computing technology can reshape global rivalry, create new economic environments, and change industries—strong themes that align with the chapter's examination of globalization and automation.