The internet is the single most important and influential invention in the last quarter century. It has changed the way we study, work, and even how we communicate. Each day, millions of people meet on the internet. Some become friends and others get to know each other even better. We are speaking of course about the rise of Singles sites.

Over the past decade, singles sites have gone from the last refuge of the dull and the desperate to a popular hangout for singles of all ages. How did they gain such broad appeal? There are many theories. But the one we believe actually has merit is that dating has changed in the last few decades.

As evidenced by the decline in marriage rates, now at a record low, people are simply not meeting like they used to. An obvious explanation for this trend is that the sexes are closer than ever, i.e., they work together, and office romances are generally discouraged. Therefore, it can be difficult for many working singles to meet someone new.

Fortunately, technology has provided a possible solution to the dating woes of the new generation. Not to mention the fact that many younger singles actually prefer virtual dating to the real thing. After all, many of them grew up online, which means that conversing over the internet is often much easier.

In a recent survey, online dating was particularly popular with women. Many of them enjoy the anonymity and the fact that they can get to know people gradually before they schedule a date, if that is what they choose to do.