Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Technology; How Far is too Far?
We discussed in class yesterday about how technology is advancing and whether or not it is a help or a burden. In my own personal beliefs, I feel that much of the technology we have that is advanced is actually destroying us rather than helping us. I also forget that humans today forget what technology really is. Simple things such as cooking, heating, pencils, and hairbrushes are all technology. What I feel is destroying us is the advanced technology such as computers, cell phones, and other electronics. We tend to forget those simple technologies. Take the pencil and paper over a computer. Sure, a computer has lots of settings that make things easier, but who really knows how to work them? A pencil and paper on the other hand, everyone can use and it even works when it’s raining. Technologies such as cell phones are really bringing down our culture and society. I know lots of people who would rather sit at home and play video games than go out and meet new people. Also, consider the iPod people; those who walk around campus listening to his or her iPod. These people are isolating themselves from human contact, avoiding conversations and often distracted. What I think is truly crossing the line; however, is that the technology is available (to those who can afford it) to alter the genes of an unborn child. Maybe I’m wrong, there are a lot of medical advancements that have saved more lives than can be counted. But again, are we really helping our population by adding more people to it? What does everyone else think? Is our technology advancements beneficial or harmful?
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Simple technologies have become so commonplace that I do believe a lot of people forget the importance of them. Things such as the washer and dryer are a convenience that many people take for granted, as well as the iPod and computer. As we make more technological advances, we eliminate the work that we have to do in order to accomplish things. In some ways I think we have truly made significant advances, allowing for us to communicate over the Internet or send messages to people in other countries. It has helped globalize the market, which has encouraged the economy. At the same time though, we have also caused people to isolate from one another with iPods and computers, taking away from community. I think the benefits and costs is a wash; however, I do wonder what the threshold norm for technology will be in the future, and how long we can allow it to dictate our personal lives within its development.
ReplyDeleteI take offense to the idea that I'm isolating myself by listening to my ipod on campus, but aside from that I agree. People are becoming way too reliant on all things technological to make their lives easier and sometimes to nullify the need for human interaction all together. Although I myself would hate to not have a computer, or a cell phone, or my ipod, I do realize that it has irreversibly shaped my life, for the ultimately better or worse I'm not sure. I can only hope that humans cherish social interactions with others enough to not let technology become even more of a determinant in our lives in the future. But that's a pretty weak hope, at this stage of the game.
ReplyDeleteI agree that some technology is working the wrong manner. However, technology such as Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter are actually improving human contact. I know from my personal experiences that I stay in touch with friends much longer through these online technologies. I communicate better with large masses and I can join groups or participate in campus activities that are advertised. I create my own groups that are related to my major and I am able to announce meetings and social activities that reach a larger group than if I had to take time to go talk to several groups.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Corinne's reply, that technology has obviously shaped our lives. I too listen to my ipod on the way to class or where ever i'm going. I dont see this as antisocial because really am i going to talk to random people i dont know while im hurrying on my way? Also, i do think that humans do cherish social interactions more than technology. I have lived my whole life with a stereo, a computer, and later having ipods and cell phones, but i have always had friends and relationships. I see new technologies as new ways to communicate and as the person above said they can lead to staying in better touch with people.
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