Response: Digital Nation

I believe technology IS a progress in society. It provides us with useful tools and information, BUT that does not mean we should completely abandon simple customs, such as reading a book or learning how to find a word in a dictionary book. As technology advance, humankind will become more inactive. If we have technology to think for us, then we will become lazy and indecisive beings because it has the short-cuts and answers for us.

The Second Life "virtual reality" kind of scares me. I also find it kind of hilarious that these serious workers are using this game as a tool for virtual meetings and interaction. I mean, sure, it brings everyone together, but why can't it be achieved in person? Why can't we be more productive and strive for the experience? Productivity does make the world go round. If everyone met and hung out virtually, then what will happen to the true reality of society? I can understand that one wants to escape from this cruel and demanding world, but is this virtual one really going to help us be more physically active in a community? Is it going to help people gain true skills? Or is it a product for slow brain damage? Also mentioned in this video was the online game, World of Warcraft. I know a couple of people who play this game, and their level of addiction is inhumane. A while back, I came across this story associated with the game: http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news200605wowbaby. So, the game supposedly took "longer" that day. What kind of shit is that? This is a good example of how technology has controlled and over-powered humans.

Back in high school, I use to have group studies with a few of my friends, and most of the time, if we were at someone's house, we were distracted by the television, our phones, or the computer. Then we would get nothing done because no one or one of us couldn't catch up. We would end up studying at a cafe and leaving between 9pm-12am on a school night. You can call it some form of ADD or you can simply blame it all on this technology. I think it is both, but more so of the technology. THEREFORE, I believe in working in a technology-free zone. Well, at least a place where I am incapable of accessing a computer. To keep my focus on what I need to get done, I usually make a list or agenda of things I need to finish, such as homework. Then I take with me only homework and a pen to a nearby coffee shop to finish. I feel that I work better in an environment where everyone is working, reading, and getting things done. It gives me a more serious mindset to accomplish something. Generally, being organized helps keep me from being distracted because I am keeping track of what I should be doing.