“Technology doubles in power and halves in price every 18 months.” (Sarah Jones)
We live in a world where modern-day technological advancements are constantly seen throughout every aspect of life. The amazing capability of modern technology has captivated us and has become an important part of our lives in the form of laptop computers, mobile phones, tablets and the like.
While it has its advantages, social media has crippled more personal means of interaction, such as calling a family member to ask how they are doing or going out to see friends. If, before the advent of Facebook, the sole reason for calling up a friend was to find out what was going on, then in the Facebook-dominated age, this has already been accomplished without having to interact with that person at all. There are no flowers, no cards and no gifts. The personal touch is gone and it’s all virtual.
We find it impossible to tear ourselves away from modern technology, resulting in a lack of focus, procrastination and poor work performance. A student, while working on his homework, is also texting a friend, constantly checking his Facebook or Twitter and watching TV and is actually forced to refresh his memory each time he makes the switch.
It is ironic how modern technology claims to create a global village, when in reality it is creating a generation that is too wrapped up in creating perfect personas online. Even when physically together and having lunch, for example, two friends continue to text and check their email, their eyes glued to their cell phone screens. What kind of an interaction would they have?
Also, is it really desirable to have one’s entire life history, complete with photographs and interactions, available on the social media? This complete lack of privacy can have detrimental effects, when one is seeking a job or a matrimonial proposal. People then judge us based on the information available about us online, which may or may not reflect who we truly are!
It is therefore important to remember that for technology to be effective and beneficial, it needs to be used with moderation.
So what can be the possible solutions?
- Have a ‘caveman day’ every fortnight. Everyone packs away their cell phones and computers, resisting contacting others through them.
- Set ground rules for yourself regarding the use of technology and track the time spent daily with the gadgets. This can contain the usage.
- Time the usage followed by a Salah in congregation or some class or other crucial activity, so you don’t spend limitless hours chatting away.
- Have minimum number of gadgets and not personalized sets for all. Sharing will decrease the time spent.
- Above all, make a proactive choice to not become a hermit that never leaves its hole.
- Make friends with sporty and outdoor kind of people, who are less prone to being engaged in cyber activities all the time.
It is possible for modern technology to create a less interactive generation that frequently depends upon technology for contentment. However, when used with discretion, it has the capability of bringing people together, creating a well-informed and wise generation, and enhancing the social abilities. The trick is to strike a balance between the virtual and the real!
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