Saturday, April 30, 2011

On Technology and Society

Someone in the horn studio made a comment the other day at the couches that our society is quickly becoming poisoned by technology. People are always on computers, facebook, twitter... texting their friends their every thought.
Sometimes I think I should just disconnect everything. Turn off my phone, delete my facebook, stop checking email, unplug the phones. I could spend my time reading or connecting face-to-face with friends. I would have so much more time to think and reflect on things without information and communication coming at me at lightning speed. Kristin told me that her boyfriend got rid of his computer and spends so much more time reading now that he doesn't have that distraction.
Everyone moves so fast and it's so easy to get caught up in this digital world. Texting is beginning to replace real conversation, and relationships can get impersonal so fast. I don't want to even start with the evils of facebook, the way it creates a false sense of connection on such a public interface.
But every time I think about taking a break from technology, I think of some critical reason why I need it; emails make communication easier, texting allows friends to connect at a moment's notice. With all of the dangers technology poses for society, its elimination would be catastrophic.
I guess the challenge is finding out how to use its power for good and not let it take over your whole life... Easier said than done.

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