New York, June 6: Elon Musk's Starlink service has introduced the Marubo tribe, a secluded Amazonian community, to the internet. The tribe, known for its chaste customs and traditional lifestyle, has experienced a cultural upheaval since the service was activated nine months ago. After getting access to the internet through Elon Musk's Starlink, some minors in the Amazon tribe were found sharing porn in WhatsApp group chats.

The Marubo, who number around 2,000 and reside along the Ituí River, initially welcomed the internet connectivity. However, Alfredo Marubo, one of the leaders of the tribe, has expressed concerns over ill effects of the internet on minors, according to a report of New York Times. The Marubo leader, according to the report, said that some minors had shared porn in their WhatsApp group chats. He expressed concerns about the impact of such content on the tribe's culture where even kissing in public is a taboo. X Goes XXX! Porn on Twitter, Elon Musk Run Social Media Platform Updates Policies, Officially Allows Sharing and Viewing of Adult Content.

"We are worried young people are going to want to try it," Alfredo was quoted as saying about the graphic sex depicted in the videos. He said some leaders had told him they had already observed more aggressive sexual behavior from young men.

Positive Outcomes of Internet

Despite these challenges, the internet has also had positive outcomes. It has proven to be a lifesaver in emergencies, such as snake bites, and has facilitated educational exchanges with other Amazonian tribes. It has also broadened the horizons for Marubo youth, inspiring aspirations of travel and professional careers. Starlink in India? Elon Musk Likely To Announce Starlink Internet Service in India During Upcoming Visit.

Restrictions in Place to Curb Internet Usage, Preserve Culture

To counteract the negative effects, tribal leaders have imposed restrictions on internet usage, limiting access to specific hours. This measure aims to preserve the tribe's oral history and culture.

The introduction of the internet has sparked a debate on the preservation of indigenous cultures versus the benefits of connectivity. Flora Dutra, a Brazilian activist, argues that the concerns are overstated and that the Marubo deserve internet access. Meanwhile, some Brazilian officials fear the loss of unique cultural practices, a sentiment Dutra criticises as ethnocentric. As the Marubo tribe navigates this new digital landscape, the balance between tradition and modernity remains delicate.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 13, 2024 03:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).