ABSTRACT
One of the common arguments, perceiving Internet connections negatively, is that these are “virtual” relationships, totally different from the “normal” way that people connect face-to-face. This chapter deals with the common criticism about Internet interaction that argues that such a relationship is not real because no one is physically present in Cyberspace. In organisational communication presence is the extent to which a medium is perceived as sociable, warm, sensitive, personal or intimate when it is used to interact with other people. The more someone is transmitting warmth, sensitivity, and creates an atmosphere of intimacy, the more this person is perceived as present in relationship. The famous ELIZA software from 1966 imitating a therapeutic session gave the impression of an empathic and accepting Rogerian psychologist. The possibility of a Cyber-psychologist brings to mind the old debate about “Turing Test”, and whether a computer can completely mimic a human being.
