I think internet forums are great sources of information about music that isn't readily available locally. For instance, living in Texas, I don't get a chance to hear much acid or schranz. Through the forums, I can get opinions and preview tracks before I spend unreasonable amounts of money to order records only to think they suck when they get here. Also I can get info on local shows. I don't like most of the people I meet at local clubs, so I can pick and choose what nights to go to without having to hang out with self-impotant bores to get the low-down on good shows. I hardly ever go out feeling the cover I paid was wasted money.

On the otherhand, the addiction issue is an issue too. I've met a few people through message boards that seem to want to talk about social politics that happen on the boards in person. Who gives a shit! If your social life revolves around the internet, you have a little bit of a problem.