This information is part of a survey released by America Online to illustrate the increasing importance of the Internet to American life. Over 1000 Internet users over 18 participated in the survey, conducted by Roper-Starch. Half of the respondents were regular AOL users.
Sixty-seven per cent of respondents would rather have a computer with an online connection rather than a phone or a television if they were stranded on a deserted island.
Forty-four per cent of the participants felt that "going online is increasingly becoming a necessity."
About 77 per cent of respondents believed that the Internet had somehow improved their lives.
Women make up 57 per cent of new Internet users over the past 12 months.
Sixty-five per cent of users are over the age of 35
Sixty-nine per cent of the respondents felt it was "important" for children to go online.
Seventy-one per cent of participants said they research purchases online.
Forty-seven per cent of those who own laptops said they take them on vacation and 26 per cent of users check their e-mail.
Source:Roper Starch - America Online study "Nearly Half of Internet Users Say Internet Online Becoming a Necessity"
