Being Human In the Age of the Electronic Mob
“Has the Internet seduced us into thinking that we can in fact live in a world without other flesh and blood people, we can just deal with screen people.” Paul Comrie-Thomson
Photo @ illuminati-news.com
The other day I was talking with a friend who commented on how the use of the Internet has made people so impersonal that it’s taking the place of human interaction.
She said that “people are missing out on real pivotal moments in life because they are too plugged in, always stuck in front of the computer.”
After I got off the phone, I called at least 3 people to say hi, not that I don’t call them anyway, but I’m technology dependent, and sending an email hello is “normal”, preferred really.
Instead of picking up the phone to emotionally connect with someone and listening to their voice, phone calls have been replaced by text messaging, emails or tweets. Technology has made it so that we don’t have to deal with humans if we don’t want to.
A few weeks ago, we had dinner with an elderly family friend, she has to be at least 89 years old, visiting from Virginia.
She passed out her calling card printed with her name, address and phone number on it. After examining the card for a few seconds and looking on the back side, I said: “Where’s your email address, how am I supposed to contact you?” She said, “Use the phone number.” 1 Sometimes a phone call is better because we get to hear emotions and true feelings that we would not get in an email or text message.
I love the Internet, its usefulness, its convenience but life is not the sum of conveniences. In fact, it would probably be less convenient, but it might also be more meaningful, especially when we examine the social and psychological dislocations that it’s caused. 2
How do you stay “human” when technology makes it so easy for us to be emotionally detached. Does time spent online outweigh the time spent interacting with family and friends? Has technology affected our thinking and way of life that it is fast becoming, not our servant, but our master?
Additional Reading:
Against the Machine: Being Human in the Age of the Electronic Mob
- I hate the phone [↩]
- social isolation [↩]
There was a time where I would claim that you could feel real human emotion, no matter the medium…but these days I yearn for someone to sit across the table and listen to me.
Matthew Dryden´s last blog post..How Tree Dances
Hi Natural - it has become really annoying to Frank and me that so many people text or send emails instead of ringing us - especially young people.
I’ve come to believe that many of them have not developed the art of making phone calls - they don’t know how to take the risk of interrupting the person from what they are doing, or know how to deal with it if they find they are. Texts and emails are really saying you don’t want to talk to the person - which is appropriate for some things, but not others.
It’s annoying when they avoid the real contact, and when there needs to be a discussion, such as making arrangements for something, and the messages have to go back and forth many times instead of just having a single phone conversation. It’s crap.
Robin´s last blog post..Bloggers’ Recording Project
Hi Natural: I guess technology has its pros and cons. For example, you and I wouldn’t be interacting if it weren’t for technology. But I go visit my little nephews and my sister as often as I can because they live close by and I like being with them (emails describing what my nephews are doing in lieu of visits would be horrible). So I guess in some cases technology allows relationships to exist between people that otherwise wouldn’t have existed, while in other cases it interferes with human interaction.
I love the internet as well -
And I do email long distance friends.
But you would probably classify me as a dinosaur or old school relic, because I choose not to have a cell phone.
I like not being connected 24/7.
And I especially like seeing my friends & family face to face -
Coffee, dinners, movies, etc…
I need hugs - not tweets!!!
dawn´s last blog post..Even When Cash Is Tight - You Can Still Pay It Forward
I find it easier to connect with my online friends than with my real life friends.
Pastilan´s last blog post..Soon You’ll be Googling Never Seen Before LIFE Magazine Photos
I think I no longer have flesh and blood friends. But I’m in a weird transitional place right now and that suits me.
I used to be on the phone constantly, daily. Truly hours. Now I’ve banned the phone from my life and truly cannot remember my cell phone number. I think that’s a subconscious way of keeping some distance right now.
cardiogirl´s last blog post..Some life tips I’ve assembled for your perusal
I totally get this post… I HATE talking on the phone. If it weren’t for text messaging, and the Internet, I’d probably never communicate with my friends. lol… Sad, I know.
I didn’t realize how bad my need to be connected was until I was having drinks with a friend the other night and he actually had to tell me to please put my BlackBerry away. I felt like a jerk and immediately did so. I think I’ll pay more attention now.
Corrina´s last blog post..And The Ex’s Keep Comin’
There are some people out there that I care not to hear their voice. I’d prefer to keep in contact, but virtually. I do get where you are coming from though… I just prefer text messaging for clarity. Often, people convey information that you may need to recall and your memory may escape you… check the text message - saves you from calling people back.
I guess I don’t have people in my life I really want to talk to all that often, outside of the people I see on a regular basis. Sad part of my life. Don’t tell anyone.
Urban Thought´s last blog post..The Big O
Hey Urban Thought- JINX! LOL
Corrina´s last blog post..And The Ex’s Keep Comin’
I’m not convinced that on-line communication is necessarily as impersonal as sometimes perceived. I know of a number of people who have successfully developed an on-line relationship which has blossomed into romance and marriage. At one time I would have viewed this with great suspicion, but now that I have been on-line much longer myself, I believe it can happen. I’ve made some great friends on-line, some of whom I will never meet, but we nevertheless do develop a relationship. Some research has been done to show that personality portrayed on the web does reflect quite accurately a person’s actual personality. I find the whole subject fascinating.
A.´s last blog post..Waste, waste, waste.
I agree to some it has become the end all and be all..for heaven’s sake I know someone who used their Blackberry to message a friend across a restaurant instead of getting up and going to talk to them
robert bourne´s last blog post..Moving Shadow
That image? Says it all. Priceless.
witchypoo´s last blog post..Meat Juice it’s the new red
I agree with A. that online communication is not necessarily as impersonal as sometimes perceived; it really depends on the parties involve and how much feeling is put into the communication. In fact, online communication has made it possible for long distance relationship and in this world where many have to travel for their work can also make use of this way to stay in touch with their loved ones at home.
BK´s last blog post..Spread the Christmas Spirit and Positive Wishes
I am bothered with how electronic our world has become. When I see two people walking along together, each talking to someone else on their cell phones, I just wonder…
Dr. J´s last blog post..Nibbles: Cholesterol news mixed, families have more trouble feeding kids and Unilever pulls Hoodia pill
Well, internet has gone a long way. but sometimes people abuse the internet’s advantages. even so, I still appreciate the privilege of connecting to people conveniently.
marly´s last blog post..Finally, I Got Paid
I think there’s a place for all of it, in moderation. The media has been claiming for years that computers isolated people, and yet I read a study that found that social media actually increases the amount of in-person contacts that people have. @Kelly has a point about email, but I’ve also found the opposite to be true. If I want to call someone to arrange to see them, I don’t necessarily want to get stuck on the phone for two hours because they’re lonely. Also, when someone sends you email, you don’t have to answer right away, as you generally do when the phone rings. You can read your email at a time convenient for you, not the other person.
Dot´s last blog post..One Heartbreaking Day
I make it a point to call at least one relative or friend each day. Additionally, I try to visit at least one relative or friend each week, not including hanging out at bars or restaurants with friends.
Connecting with people, in person especially, makes my life better. The Internet facilitates connections, but voice and faces facilitate communication and understanding.
Ian´s last blog post..Talking and Squawking
This is an eye opener post. People are forgetting social (not online one) life and becoming more or less robots after getting hooked on to the PC and internet for almost through out the day. Telephone and Television are passe now (Radio? What is that, except for that streaming sound while driving)…
You will be surprised, Even in offices, instead of getting up and talking to the person sitting across, people use instant messengers. Instead of calling up a colleague in the same building elsewhere, people use only email and not phone!
Whither us?
Ajith Edassery´s last blog post..Who is your real idol blogger?
Good questions. I think people have control over their actions, and so we cna choose to become fully immersed in the internet- or we can choose to step back and spend time with family and friends. It’s really up to us.
The Internets and technology is just like anything else, there are pros and cons.
Yes, it is becoming increasingly easier to be secluded from personal interaction with the outside world.
We simply have to make an effort to interact with others, much like you did by picking up the phone.
Funny thing is, when I do so, it often goes straight to voicemail…
There certainly still is a huge need for person to person contact.. I’m not so sure we’ve over done the use of technology at this stage, but I can see it heading in that direction. Email and texting are powerful, practical tools, I guess we just have to be aware that the potential exists to misuse these.
There’s nothing like the ability of our brains to decipher someone’s body language when we speak to them face to face.
Cheers
-Ross
Ross´s last blog post..You see in your own life what you believe
This is so true! I went 100% unplugged for 24 hours and was going crazy, sure sign of addiction huh?
Talina´s last blog post..Homemade holiday gifts are IN, what are you making?
I’m really not very social - the (Anti) Social part of the site name is kind of a joke but is a lot the truth. Online relationships have allowed me to interact with people from all over the world that I never would have met otherwise but still spend time alone.
That being said, I used to work in Tech Support and people would often email in their support issue. I learned that you could resolve the problem much faster by calling the person back rather than emailing. Of course, I ran the risk of the person having additional problems but the phone actually made the work easier.
I think there needs to be a balance as with anything.
Kim Woodbridge´s last blog post..5 New(ish) WordPress Themes
Tomorrow I’ll get my first Blackberry/Crackberry. Might as well just say, “Good-bye” now. Look for me on the next episode of INTERVENTION.
Hi Natural - I like the online connections I make, but I enjoy the off line ones better. Let’s face it, we can’t get hugs online, nor can we see the smiles on loved ones faces or hear their laughter. (well, I guess with a video we could)
BTW: the photo you picked for this post is priceless. For some I’m guessing it’s pretty close to the truth.
Barbara Swafford - Blogging Without A Blog´s last blog post..Be Careful What You Wish For
Hmm this is something I often wonder about. To be honest I LOVE email and the fact that things are so easy and quick these days. At my age, ever since I have had to contact people about anything important I have usually been able to email it which makes me really used to this kind of technology. I understand what you mean about talking on the phone though, and I agree it is important.
Being in a long distance relationship really highlights that fact for me. We text all the time but really it is hard to show emotion in texts, and it is easy to hear what you want to hear. If I’m in a bad mood, I will read his texts as bad. All it takes is a phone call to let me know what he really means and that I’m being an idiot! And this is true for all sorts of conversations.
And if it is so EASY to keep in touch, why do many of us just eventually stop emailing or stop texting some of our old friends? It’s almost too easy that we don’t bother.
mspennylane´s last blog post..Why I’m Just A Girl
“Has technology affected our thinking and way of life that it is fast becoming, not our servant, but our master? ” I think if we allow it yes. The world is becoming smaller as we zoom from place to place in seconds. Convenience is addicting.
I realize that I can get very addicted to the internet. So I make it a point to schedule time for going outdoors. I don’t find spending too much time on my laptop as healthy. I still need the human interaction and to keep myself grounded by being close to nature.
Evelyn Lim´s last blog post..My Vision Board Tops Amazon’s Bestseller List?
Another excellent, thoughtful post. I, too, hate the phone and would be equally perplexed by a card that had no e-mail. I’ve really come to rely on that. Currently, I’m battling with my sister-in-law (I’m editing a book she’s writing) over how best to communicate. She wants phone, I want e-mail. In this case, I think e-mail is more appropriate, but there are certainly instances where nothing can substitute for a phone call. I talk to my mom every day. We also e-mail, but I can’t imagine giving up those daily phone calls.
JD at I Do Things´s last blog post..I Fantasize About Tim Gunn so you don’t have to
I do lean heavily on the internet and email for communication however…I think I stay pretty human as I have tons of contact with my ‘real life’ friends. Although sometimes I like my ‘online friends’ more.
meleah rebeccah´s last blog post..Casa Buena Suerte, Riviera Maya, Mexico!
I think many people lack balance. I have a cell phone, but I’m the type that can turn it off when its appropriate and even leave a store when I need to talk to someone (I don’t like using them indoors). When I use the phone it’s mostly for business purposes or talking to my mother. I am soooo not a phone person so for me, email or text is best but I try to have face to face contact if possible but time is an issue. If I’m available, they are not. A lot of my friends travel either for business, family or pleasure so email, text, etc is the only way most of the time.
carla´s last blog post..Holiday Gift Ideas | Not Buying it
hi Valerie,
That picture is hillarious and your quote “Where’s your email address? How do I get a hold of you.” is even more hillarious. Great post. I can’t image life with out the internet. I also can’t image life without human interaction. It’s just a matter of balance. Some of us do it better than others.
~ Steve (aka the trade show guru and self-admitted internet addict)
PS. I sometimes wonder if my nephews know that you can actually TALK on a cell phone and not just use it for texting… perhaps I’m too “old school”.
Steve | Trade Show Guru´s last blog post..Unused Gift Cards and Stores Going Out of Business
It is pretty sad when technology has ran over our lives =\
Aimee´s last blog post..Music Survey and Whatnot
Matthew, I don’t doubt that real human emotion can be felt over the internet, but it’s nice to have that human contact whenever possible, assuming the relationship is healthy.
Robin, I’m one of those people who like for people to contact me via email, but when making arrangements, I think that should be done over the phone because then email becomes as bothersome as using the phone. I rather get it over with.
Marelisa, yes, it has its pros and cons. When it serves you, great, when you serve it, not great. In some cases when people can’t physically be together, technology is great. I use a video phone myself, but when it’s used to avoid human interaction and contact, maybe there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed? Interesting.
Dawn, no I wouldn’t classify you as a dinosaur for not having a phone. I only have one for emergency and hardly use it, don’t like for people to call me on it to chat either. Now I don’t like being disconnected 24/7 from my internet, my computer is just on or either sleep. I tried disconnecting for a day and it was difficult, but I would like to try that again, I need to.
Pastilan, I guess with anything, we get out of it what we put into it. I prefer my real life friends. Thanks for visiting.
CardioGirl, awh Cardiogirl, no flesh and blood friends, you’re too cool not to have any friends, is that right? Eek, the phone.
Corrina, oh you are too social not to hang out with your friends, technology or not, I read your blog. LOL. What were you doing on your BlackBerry that he had to tell you to put it away. What was urgent?
Urban Thought, I guess I could understand that, but I don’t keep people in my life that I can’t pick up the phone and call. If it’s that bad that I only, want to email someone, well then…bounce. Even with text messaging and email, if you don’t put a happy face or LOL, things get misconstrued. I do email people, as my first choice depending on subject matter and who it is, but I also use the phone when I need to. I won’t tell anyone if you don’t.
A., online relationships can be developed, but don’t the parties involved eventually want to meet? The internet and the web are great about bringing people together where oceans separate them, but I wouldn’t use it instead of…with people online it’s easier to fudge who you are to me. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.
Robert, that’s a little crazy and just a tad lazy
Witchypoo, I thought that photo was great. I’m not there, yet. I can leave the house and be okay without my computer.
BK, no it’s not always impersonal, we make it that way. In some cases, it’s practical, but sometimes abused.
Dr. J, okay I feel a bit annoyed when I see that myself. I like attention and would hate to compete with a darn phone or gadget…okay sometimes you need to take a call….I get it, but don’t make it a habit.
Marly, hey I love the internet, it’s fascinating, but good gaud, there is a such thing as technology overload.
Dot, in moderation is the difficult part. I just read something in my local paper that said social networking on the computer was essential for kids, they need to know how to communicate with other people? Try having a conversation with some people. Just because my phone rings at home doesn’t mean I answer it, who came up with that concept, lol.
Ian, I love this thought, nicely said: the Internet facilitates connections, but voice and faces facilitate communication and understanding. Sometimes, I only call people when I want something or need to know something ASAP…a call hello in addition to an email is nice too.
Ajith Edassery, how did you know I IM a co-worker around the corner. It’s easy to do, but like you said, don’t forget the other options and use them when possible. I need the reminder.
Vered, internet and technology addiction is real. I’m not sure some people have control over their actions all the time, I wish I had more control, but it is a choice. Joke I heard: how can you tell if there is a broken computer in the house? The house is clean. I know people who spend all their time online but say they don’t have time to clean up. LOL. Off topic, move along Valerie.
Political Conservatives, pros and cons. Agreed. I will say if I don’t have to call for customer service help, I won’t. I rather email and forget going into a bank dealing with people, gimme an ATM.
Ross, nothing wrong with email and texting, heck I’m tweeting, something I never thought I would do, but it’s fun for my online time, but there always is, like you said, the potential to misuse.
Talina, well I guess WE might have a hint of addiction. I’m not giving it up, but I can reduce my time spent just surfing.
Kim, well of course in that instance, the web rocks! I love being in contact with people all over the world.
Colleen, I didn’t even know there was a show called Intervention, I just looked it up on the um, web. Do come back and let us know if it’s addicting. Actually you know what I dreamed about last night? An iPhone! I remember going online and reading a blog thinking this is so cool. If I had one, uh just forget it, I might be in more trouble.
Barbara, I feel the same way you do. I like being online, but face to face, if possible, is probably better for me. Tough subject because I’m really on the other side of the fence trying to find balance.
MsPennyLane, Well in the case of a long distant relationship, emailing and other forms of technology makes sense. Good question, if it is so easy, how come some find it so hard to stay in touch.
Mark, I heard this saying a few months ago that said, if something is convenient, often times we are paying for the convenience. Some times I wonder with what?
Evelyn Lim, it is addicting, isn’t it. I would like to schedule more time to do other things myself. I love the web, but I have other interests. Don’t really want to look back on life thinking about the time I spent online vs. cultivating other relationships, interests and talents.
JD, well email is just as popular as a telephone number, it’s nice to have. I think maybe it depends on what you are communicating about…as mentioned, if making plans, pick up the phone if possible.
Meleah, so do I and your online friends are awesome, aren’t we?
Carla, that’s it in a nutshell. Balance, at least for me.
Steve, guess what happened when I called her. She hung up on me! She said something like she couldn’t hear me and I had the wrong number. I called her back and spoke really loud. Too funny. She was happy to hear from me…
My phone is really cheesy, prepaid too. People love to show me all the tricks their phones can do, I tell them mine just rings. I can make calls if I need to. It does have a camera and I can text, but I don’t use it much.
Aimee, it can be sad if we let it, otherwise it’s great. Let it be a servant and not a master is the best perspective I’ve read.
@Robin - I had to chuckle about regarding your comment on young people preferring emails and texting to phone calls. My daughters (ages 22 and 23) email or text me (because they know that’s they only way they will get me) and type “PHONE YOUR DAUGHTER”. So, I’m not sure it’s an age thing. I hate phones. I always have. All my life. Sit down in front of me, and we’ll have a good gab. But ask me to phone you, it ain’t gonna happen.
@Natural - you know what started all this? Camcorders! It used to amaze me that parents chose to watch their children growing up through the lense of a movie camera. The kids’ dad and I refused to get one, and we were total freaks apparently. But seriously, how many times did people watch the videos have the fact. Once maybe. We chose the real event. Anyway, it is my theory that camcorders were the beginning of the end.
Urban Panther´s last blog post..The struggle
I love technology, and will use it to communicate in many cases, but with really close relationships, you gotta have that voice contact!
The Fitness Diva´s last blog post..It’s My 200th Blogday!!!
I’m one of those who raged at what all these new fangled innovations were doing to us. Now I can’t get enough of them particularly the internet. But it does seem like we are losing something.
Hi Natural - I agree with your point about the convenience of online connections. Great point that this convenience also comes with a price - all great things must be in moderation.
I was reading how Obama would have to give up email, now that he’s going to be the president. I wonder if he knew that came with the job?
Al at 7P´s last blog post..Guest Post at Write to Done
Well, it would be really hard for me to give up email. I don’t like talking on the phone at all, but LOVE letter writing. And not enough people do THAT, definitely.
Great blog. I just stumbled in here today for the first time, but I’m really enjoying it!
Wendy´s last blog post..Letter Writing Prompt: Thanksgiving Notes
I know that I have several friends that seem to never call anymore but will instead just send a text. Even after I call them they will not pick up but send a text message asking what I want. Really gets annoying, sometimes you just can’t have a conversation through text.
John - Maryland Real Estate´s last blog post..Baltimore Real Estate
I know you are right but I so love my computer(s)!! There are many older people that are taking computer classes and getting hooked up, so many of them are entranced with the concept of being able to use a video camera to see and talk with someone in real time.
I couldn’t do with out this piece of technology.
Hi Valerie. I didn’t buy a cellphone until 2 years ago and I hardly turn it on. I only use it if I’m on my way to meeting a friend. We can keep in contact in case one of us is running late. As for the phone vs email, there are pros and cons.
The good thing about email is for business reasons it leaves a “paper trail” and some record of what was discussed. I like it to contact friends if I know the time is too late to call but I don’t want to forget what I want to say and so they get it in an email. But I do agree with you that a lot of times email is used when the phone is the better option.
Davina´s last blog post..Small Steps To Empower Your Attitude
Thanks for the reply
In fact, don’t we all need reminders as to when Telephone is to be used or just going up to people and talk?
(Came here via Kim’s blog, will definitely visit again to read your view points)
to me phones are much more personal and usually quicker than email but both are completely different types of communication to me. I’ve conversed by email with someone for ages and when I finally talked to them on the phone I found out what they were like without a backspace key or spell check… boring!! I’d never have guessed from the finally crafted emails.
Andy Bailey´s last blog post..ShamelesslySassy.com : Featured Site
I am sooooooo tied to both my computers and BlackBerry that I probably couldn’t survive without them. I fact I am getting to point where I should be able to manage and monitor my site from my BlackBerry.
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I remember thinking, as the internet was starting to go mainstream, that it would allow people to function without ever leaving their homes again. This is certainly true now, although people still do generally get out now & again for whatever reason. However, this is the perfect tool for the agoraphobic. It supports their disability without forcing them to confront their demons.
However, I believe the anti-socialization process began years ago, with mass media devices like the radio & TV. Their commercial messages have gone from the benefits of using certain products to the fact that there’s something WRONG with YOU if you don’t. Not only that, but you’re a loser if you share, too. Everyone must have their own, which must be guarded & hoarded like gold…yes, even if it’s just Corn Pops.
Add to this the speed at which society & technology has changed over the past 50 years. Humans are notoriously resistant to change, but my oh my, how things have changed! This has created huge amounts of stress. Along comes the magic, electronic box of anonymity & now everyone’s free not only to separate from society, but to hurl their barbs of frustration & stress at people they don’t know or care to. If you look at sites from different countries, too, you find that Westerners really do come off as the total dicks we’re perceived as by the rest of the world. So much for the assertions that everyone’s just “jealous of our freedom.”
Don’t forget video games, as well. I grew up with Atari. “Pitfall” never gave me seizures or addicted me so badly that I gave up on everything else in life. It also never trained me to disregard human life (or ANY life, for that matter,) & rack up points by raping, stealing & killing, either.
My husband & I went for a hike yesterday. Next weekend the “Abita Artists” group I recently started will be holding our first local art market. I recommend both things highly. Get out & get alive!
Lana´s last blog post..Award…Thanks!
I like the internet and all b ut really limit myself to maybe 2= 1/2 hr s a day if that long for emails , news banking, blogs etc.I am in the public so much that no not this cookie - plenty of social interaction - but great premise..sandy
sandy k´s last blog post..Beware of Scanner Kitty !!!!! Run for your Lives !!
I hope you had a nice weekend!
Urban Panther, camcorders? That’s interesting. You know how I like to record everything. I’m fiddling around with a post that will address the in front of the lens phenom, stay tuned.
The Fitness Diva, I guess it’s good to switch it up once in a while, depending on what’s being talked about. A little of both?
Daryl, that’s funny. If we’re around it enough, eventually we’ll get sucked in, some way, some how.
Al, I saw that article about Obama and I’m not sure I would want a job where I would have to give up email. I heard his phone records were already tapped. Also heard he was addicted to his blackberry.
Wendy, I don’t do a lot of letter writing myself, maybe I’ll send out a few cards once in a while, but I haven’t written a letter in a while. I like my email, better than I like the phone.
John, if someone did that to me and I really needed to talk to them, I would probably call until they picked up. If you call me, eventually, could be weeks later, I’ll call you back. If you email me, I’ll email you back.
Mamaflo, computers are amazing, we should all use them, as a tool maybe? They are useful. I’m trying to wean myself off the computer just a little bit, I have other interests I’d like to rekindle.
Davina, sometimes I wonder how we did without cell phones when meeting up with people in the past. I can’t remember, either we were on time or the person just waited, or left.
Ajith, I need reminders. Thanks for stopping by.
Andy, I thought we weren’t going to mention our conversation in public and how boring I am on the phone. Sometimes I’m so quiet on the phone people have to keep saying, hello, are you there or either I talk so low, they just can’t hear me. LOL. I do find some people, as I’m sure they find me, to be more interesting behind the keyboard…sometimes a phone conversation can just spoil the fantasy.
Mel, wow, manage and monitor? I would survive, but I might not like it for the first few hours. Sidebar: Thanks for stopping by, I checked out your site…I wonder if you have a category for me…I haven’t quite figured out my place yet.
Lana, well I’m a homebody and would love to work from home, I don’t ever need to leave, but I worship the sun, so I need to get out on occasion. You make a good point and are probably correct about anti-socialization beginning a long time ago. I tend not to pay too much attention to advertisement when it comes to what they think I need, especially when I’m spending my money. I don’t have a problem with how technology has progressed, in some areas it has made our lives better, but not necessarily efficient. Gadgets promise more time with family, but I see people, myself included, spending more time with gadgets and away from family…that’s fine if that’s what you want, my thing is don’t get it twisted. Don’t be fooled. It’s nice to step away sometimes…Thanks for your passionate comment, there’s a lot that could be discussed in it.
SandyK, that’s the thing with the internet and the web, there are no limits. We have to institute them or it can keep you tied down forever. Life goes by.
Mark, I had a busy weekend, playing catch up now. Thanks. Hope you enjoyed as well.
NaTuRaL´s last blog post..Being Human In the Age of the Electronic Mob
Hey, I am still recovering from my shoulder surgery, but wanted to drop by and comment on your latest post. I still read lots of posts but cannot type for extended periods of time, so my commenting is limited. I enjoyed this post and I am glad I dropped by.
peace,
Mike
livelife365
Mike Foster´s last blog post..The Essence of Garlic
I can certainly relate to this article. I would much rather deal with business over the internet or thru technology because of lousy customer service and a “you are bothering me” attitude. Another reason, I only want to deal with the issue I called for, I don’t want to buy anything else, I don’t want to make any changes…(cranky aren’t I?)
Dee Langdon - BloggerNewbie´s last blog post..The Wise Sheep
im such a selfish person. I don’t communicate often with my real life friends, family and in internet. i have sister who live in michigan but seldom we talked and never exchange email and the same as with my friends who live miles away. There might be once a month of seeing and exchanging email more often never. i honestly love to hang out with my family and friends but my sideline extra income-business keep me occupied all the time. if i am bored i drive alone too bad that i fail to call any of them to go with me. They all felt disappointed with me because i don’t call and see them even once a week. im hooked up with the people in blogospher interacting so i live in the internet!:(
fit4all´s last blog post..Always Camera Aware
Thank you for the wonderful post. The talking-point relates to each of us and depicts quite threatening picture. Yet I think that Internet didn’t bring anything new in essence- the new technology just made the test of our “humanity” much more visible. The “impersonality” defines not the modern relationships between people, but marks the losers of all ages. The new technologies help us greatly to deal with our statistics, but even super-computers can’t breathe in life to a man. The “Impersonality” is awful diagnosis of the world’s spirituality. Yet the healing can be just exclusively personal to each of us.
Though I know that Internet can’t substitute the eye-to-eye relationships, but I greatly rejoice at such attempts of the Internet BECAUSE I live with the disabilities and consequently the computer is my main window towards the life.
I’m grateful to the new technologies for the help not to forget what for I lived prior my head bones were crashed- what for the miracle returned me to life again. Thus I’m glad to invite you via e-mail to art therapy club Modus Vivendi http://trustlight.blogspot.com/
You are welcomed to my other blogs too. You will have a good time with my artworks there. I hope you will listen to my meditation in color and I will receive your feedback.
So you are welcomed. Happy browsing through the archives of http://arthiker.wordpress.com/
Thank you for the thoughts provoking post. Your writing awakes indeed.
Tomas´s last blog post..fine art in reality
I can say that it is in the person if he/she let technology take control of his/her life. Technology is a big help to make our work easier and relax. But it can’t give all we need.
Diana Rupert´s last blog post..Why Buy Pioneer Elite Kuro PRO-111FD?
Sending you a Happy Thanksgiving!
Mark´s last blog post..The Journey Continues During the Holidays!
I love this photo! Our x-box blew up today because my son and fiancee have been spending so much time on it this week. I love karma!
I am online a lot: at home and at work. BUT I make it a point to also keep “grounded” and attached to the “real world”. I spend time with my friends, call them and well also having a child makes me need to go out there. I think if you have a heatlhy balance between online and off line life there is nothing to worry about.
Of course I love the internet. But nothing should take the place of human interaction. That would truly be dangerous
Roschelle´s last blog post..Screw Black Friday…I’m staying home and waiting for Cyber Monday!
Ten years I couldn’t imaging living without TV, back then the internet was just a gimmick to me.
Now I hardly watch TV, but I’m online for about 5-6 hours a day. After a knee surgery I was at home for 5 weeks and I was alone most of the time, but I never felt lonely, because I got the internet. Scary…
Bald Guy´s last blog post..SEO is good, but sometimes SEO goes too far, then SEO starts being annoying!
Interesting post. I find it easy and convenient to communicate on the internet. Frankly, I can’t stand it without internet in a day. Phone call and text messaging is only secondary. But the question is how do we stay human? That is also the problem now, people are getting fat because of technology.
Valerie, great post. I was thinking about something similar recently when I picked up the phone to arrange a lunch date with a friend, but then thought, “No, I’ll just email her.” Afterwards I couldn’t stop thinking about why I didn’t just ring. On that day I think the email felt like a way not to get caught up in a long chat and to ensure I got the things done I had to that day.
I still call friends, but usually now it is to catch up with friends who live far away and who I don’t get to see very often. All arrangements seem to be done via message or email. Is that a good thing? yes, I think it can be if you keep it in perspective. If you’re organising to SEE someone I think it’s perfect. It’s quick and non-intrusive. Let’s face it, the world can be a chaotic place these days and everything seems t move so fast. It’s hard to emotionally cope with everything going on (or is that just me?), so technology has allowed us a way to deal with the minor details effortlessly.
I think the problem is if you rely on technology rather than actually forming close, human connections with people.
And as Marelisa says, technology allows all of us to be long distance friends, and how cool is that!
Kelly
This really scares me. I find that I’m becoming addicted to my computer. I rarely call anyone and I seldom go out, since I work from home. Thankfully, for now, I have a husband who’s not on my back about it. Maybe I’ll go to a movie today just to try to make some kind of human connection. My goal is to say hello to at least one stranger. OMG, where are we headed? I shudder to think!
Your post has me thinking about restructuring my life.
Mike, that’s good news and thanks for stopping by.
Dee, that’s how I feel when it comes to customer service, sometimes, I don’t want to talk to a human, I rather push buttons if I can get what I want.
Fit4All, hmmm, I can’t really imagine your situation. For people that I know well, I do need to call them, but depending on what we need to talk about, I can get by on email…dare I say balance. I love the internet/web too.
Tomas, ah, never looked at it that way, but I agree: the new technology just made the test of our “humanity” much more visible. It’s still up to us how we choose to respond or use it.
Diana, well said, personal accountability and choice.
Mark, thanks.
Jen Brister, the photo is quite amusing. That’s funny, but not. Sorry about your Xbox. I’m waiting on a Wii and my first injury.
DutchB, balance is the difficult part. It’s so easy to be entertained just by the computer/technology, little reminders to stay “grounded” are nice, for me anyway.
Roschelle, meeee tooo! Human interaction is uh, necessary.
BaldGuy, yeah I don’t bother with the TV myself. I spend more time on my computer, not 5-6 hours (yet), but if I were home because of an illness, I would have a laptop growing out of my chest.
Raquel, it is easy to communicate on the net, I can easily say or type things that I normally would not say out loud or share. Yeah, I blame the computer for my 25 lbs weight gain. I should be exercising…still personal choice.
Kelly, hello and welcome. I think a lot of people don’t want to get up into long chats (we’re all busy) and I’m wondering if technology has made us less tolerant of people, less truthful, we get out of whatever via email or text message. We don’t have to deal with it or them and that’s the whole point. We don’t have time for people and their feelings or problems. I’m guilty.
Jacqueline, I know how you feel, mine is always on, even if I’m not using it. I’m going to try to disconnect one day when I’m home, that will be the real test. I can leave the house and do..don’t need a phone or nothing, but when I get back home, there is so much that needs to be done on the computer. Why? Anywho, thanks for stopping by.
NaTuRal´s last blog post..Being Human In the Age of the Electronic Mob
You have raised a fundamental issue - a sense and compulsive move towards dissociation! That’s really going to be the shape of the society in the days to come.
How can Internet/email/phone calls compensate for the warmth of touch?
At some point of time we need to ponder over the basic reason for our survival? Rightly said - life should have less comfort and convenience.
We are living like people in a marooned island!
I work primarily from home and it’s really lonely. Many women dream of working at home, but here I am applying for jobs out of boredom. I can’t wait to get back into the workforce.
Computer is a must for today’s world. I got 2 computers and 1 laptop actively using. The trend of electronic is hitting hard and all of us need to follow, if failed, we might not making any money at all.
As much as I spend a lot of time online and enjoy it, I look for opportunities to connect off-line! I can’t just sit in front of the computer all day. I have to meet face-to-face with people. Not in a business sense…but for that real off-line interaction ya know?
Ricardo Bueno´s last blog post..[Bloggy Question] What Do You Do When They Don’t Respond To Your Comment?
I like the combination of technology and as one commenter said “real off-line interaction. I do both frequently.
I do a lot of my work with people totally by phone. When I first started, I wasn’t sure I could develop a good relationship without being able to see the person. I was wrong.
I found using the phone made me listen even more carefully to what the person was saying because I wasn’t distracted by visual cues.
I feel the same way about blogging and emailing. I believe our brains are large enough to adapt to both face-to-face contact as well as to technological interaction.
Sara
Sara B. Healy´s last blog post..Just Say YES: Expand Your Boundaries
Nilz – e-Shopping, I wonder if one day we all will be doing work for home. I think the important thing is balanced…not to forget how powerful the human touch is, it has healing power. When you can make that person to person contact, go for it.
An American in France, hmmm, I heard people say they get bored at home, that’s something that has not happened to me yet. It’s nice in the work force if your coworkers don’t get on your last nerves (cough cough).
Atniz, sure it’s a must, as a tool….you do need it in the work force, agreed. I wouldn’t have this lovely job I have now if I didn’t know computer. : )
Ricardo, I can sit in front of the computer all day, but I don’t want to. I miss reading books, yummy books. I cut back my time and have started reading again. I do try to call more people if possible instead of emailing. So far only one friend has not had time to pick up the darn phone and call me back, but email me instead.
Sara B Healy, oh yeah the brain adapts to whatever we feed it…I have to post this great article I read in scientific mind about how using technology creates new brain patterns or waves..very interesting now I’m off topic, but you can develop relationships over the phone…but there’s nothing like in person, to me.
Hi Valerie… this is so sad. Whether we like it or not, we have to consider some that prefers the new tech than the one that we are comfortable…
Have a nice day.
Hey Grace, yeah I guess we do.
I love the “electronic age”.
Email allows my mother to send long letters to both of her daughters at the same time.
IM allows me to chat with my sister most days; we “talk” more now than we did when we lived in the same house.
IM keeps me in touch with my husband during the day, when we’re each at work and physically separated.
I think better in writing than speaking. I’ve never liked telephones.
have a cell phone. I use it for outgoing calls. If you ask me the number, I’ll have t look it up (and it won’t do you any good because it doesn’t accet voicemail.)
My company relies on IM and email s much that I had the IT dept take awa my desk phone!
Twitter brings me into contact with people all over the globe! Email keeps me in touch with friends from College.
I’m just as human as I ever was and much better connected.
Vicki´s last blog post..vlb: I think we could settle on one "Roadhouse" rule: "Keep your eyes on the road, your hands upon the wheel." Shouldn’t that be sufficient?
well vicki, i’m used to the electronic age myself, but when possible, it’s nice to connect with people without the electronic interruptions. yeah another person who hates the phone. yay. now the door bell is getting on my nerves. lol
thanks for stopping by.
It is very easy to spend more time on the Internet than with family. I really have to be very disciplined and set a specific amount of time or I’d be at the computer constantly. Using the phone is a rare thing, but then, I never used it much before email either. Actually, I keep more in touch with friends now than before I got my computer and have made new virtual friends through blogging and social networking sites.
I enjoy both, the fellowship of actually being with people as well as using the great technology we have at our fingertips.
Hi Karen and Gerard, oh don’t I know it. I can sit at the computer all day, and even though I’m interacting with people..physically connecting, whenever possible has its benefits. Thanks for stopping by.
Karen & Gerard Zemek´s last blog post..Manny & Spunky Doodle Find the Catnip