Technology: Good or Bad?

Today as I sat in a coffee shop, I found myself eavesdropping on a conversation that was taking place between two men who I estimate were in their eighties. As they began to talk, I started to listen as they were providing a wealth of knowledge and information. They began discussing the days of old, how business used to thrive in a shopping mall across the street from where we all sat, and how sad and empty the same buildings now looked. The conversation then turned to old radio programs, and how the people on various radio shows had talent, as well as taste. These programs served as a time for whole families to gather around the radio (as television had yet to become a mainstay), to provide some much needed laughter during turbulent times, such as was taking place during World War II. One of the gentlemen then made a remark about how television lacks substance, and is quite sexual, perverted, and tasteless.

As I began to think about what he had said, I began to realize how right he was. Even in the last twenty years, the quality of television programming, as well as the shows that now air, have diminished significantly. Where bad language was once not allowed on television shows, it has now become a standard practice, and deemed "cool." However in my opinion, there is nothing "cool" about foul language coming out of the mouths of actors on television shows, as many children now confide themselves in technology's grasp. Such television shows are a direct influence on children, and as we all know, kids are like sponges that absorb everything they hear and see. As I have stated in previous blogs, I feel that technology is hindering us much more than it is helping. Don't believe me? Consider this: There once was a time where children played outside in their yards, where neighbors knew one another and had trusting friendships, where whole neighborhoods would gather as a community. With some rare exceptions, most neighborhoods are now desolate as you walk or drive down the street. No longer do you hear children’s laughter and joy as they play outside. Due to such inventions as television, computers, and cell phones, children and adults alike, now confide themselves inside their homes. In addition, due to neighborhoods no longer having a sense of community, which fostered safety and trust, parents now live in fear of letting their children outside to play, pretend, and explore.

Furthermore, many people no longer enjoy reading a good book, or care about good spelling or writing skills. With such devices as instant messenger and texting on cell phones, the English language has now become full of abbreviations. The sad part is that most college students spend more time on Facebook during a classroom lecture, than paying attention to what is being taught, as most professors just think that their students are using their laptops for taking notes. Walk around any college campus in the United States and you will see nearly 75% of all students looking down as they walk while texting on their cell phones (be careful you might get ran into by one of them!).

Although technology certainly has provided great advances in inventions, medicine, and science, I personally feel that it is hindering us more than it is improving our quality of life. I believe that technology (as well as over processed, and fast food) is a large factor for the current issue of obesity in the United States. Moreover, due to people being stuck in their homes instead of enjoying nature, there are a lot less people exercising. This fact is also aided by more white-collar office jobs, where individuals sit at a desk all day looking at a computer screen.

Is there any hope for what I have officially dubbed as the "Technological-Trap Disease?" I believe unless more awareness is generated among the general public, this problem will only continue to get worse. I write this blog as my way to help you the reader, consider the negative effects of technology. It is my hope that you will consider the above mentioned social and physical issues, and begin to take steps in order to make a change toward improvement.

Let us always remember the wisdom of the older generation, and respect their point of view, for I feel they have a lot to offer.

Until next time,
Nick