If you’re reading this right now without using the Internet, raise your hand. I won’t see you or anything, but you will know that you’re part of the 15% of the U.S. population that doesn’t use the Internet. I’d also be super impressed at how you managed to visit this site without the Internet, but that’s another issue for another day.

Yes, it’s true: There are those who walk among us who have skirted the greedy, insatiable maw of the digital age, these people who shun all things WWW-related. According to a new study from Pew Research Center (via AFP) found that not only does that sizable chunk of Americans shrug at the Internet, most of them are happy that way. Yes, even without Facebook.

A full 92% of those who don’t use the Internet anywhere, on any device say they have absolutely no interest in using the Internet or even sending an email in the near future.

They’re not totally ignorant of what the Internet has to offer, however, as 44% of the offliners said they’ve asked a pal or family member to look something up for them or do something else Internet-related.

Another nine percent say they only use the Internet at work, and go offline in their personal lives.

“A lot of people are surprised to discover that not everyone is online,” said Kathryn Zickuhr, a Pew researcher and author of the report.

“Most offline adults either don’t see the Internet as relevant to them, or feel that it would not be worth the effort. And though many have had some experiences with the Internet in the past, most non-Internet users say they are not interested in going online in the future.”

You know what this means? Those 15% have never witnessed the glory of a double rainbow video or seen Nyan cat streaking across the universe. If you know someone like this, offer your assistance in educating them, please. It’s only human.

15% in US shun Internet; most intend to stay offline [AFP]

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