Finding A Balance

Recently, in class, we have been exposed to the works and ideas of several people who resist the pervasiveness of technology in modern culture in order question its effect on us.  Instead of immediately engaging with new technologies with excitement, people such as Sven Birkerts and Ted Kaczynski view emerging technology with an eye of skepticism.  Resistance occurs in varying degrees.  While Birkerts leaves some room for the benefits of technology and hesitatingly embraces it, Kaczynski denounces modern technology in its entirety and wishes to overthrow it.

While I may not always agree with these widespread denouncements of technology I think they bring up an interesting point.  It's easy for us to get caught up in the glamour of owning fancy new gadgets and we don't often stop to think about how they affect our daily lives.  My cell phone is always attached to my hip and I'm on the internet (generally doing something unproductive) quite often.  I rarely stop to think about these things.  Like most people I know, they are just a part of my daily existence. 

It's tough to imagine not being constantly connected though I wonder if it's really necessary.  Leaving my phone in my room for the day, for example, can be liberating but at the same time causes anxiety; what if I'm missing something?  I spent this past weekend at my sister's house realizing with dread when I got there that her wireless internet still wasn't working.  I spent my time there without facebook or email (because really? a wired connection? not going there) which, while annoying at times, also meant I spent my extra time reading a book for class instead of mindlessly surfing the web.

This leads me to believe that extremes in either direction are not the way to go.  While Birkerts' and Kaczynski's ability to resist technology is quite impressive I don't think it's the best solution.  I also don't think one should feel the need to be constantly connected.  For me, the best way to approach technology and connectivity is through moderation.  Don't completely resist it but don't be a slave to it either.  Especially considering that technology can also be used toward productive ends, I think it's important to find a balance in our use of it.  Enjoy it because its fun, use it in productive and convenient ways, and step away every once in a while.