The Golden Age of Technology

Remember when "technology" meant a sharp stick, a raggedy piece of flint, or a misshapen piece of pottery? Of course you don't--that was thousands of years ago. If you look over time and the progression of our species, it's absolutely amazing how much technology has progressed. We've taken the first strides in space travel, and exploration in that area will only increase in frequency and depth as time goes on. We can communicate with people around the globe instantaneously, through computers and email, cell phones and Skype. Ten years ago, if you had told me that we'd be able to pause live TV, rewind it and watch it again, and even record it without a busted up VCR and VHS tape in tow, I would have laughed in your face. Now I'd certainly have to eat my...laughs, I suppose, because that's exactly what can be done with the likes of TiVo and DVR.

Thus, the question becomes, are we simplifying life with all of this fabulous technology, or are we just complicating it further? Like most questions, there isn't just one response. Technology will be essential in specific areas of life, such as scientific inquiry, space exploration, business, research and information exchange, entertainment, travel, communication, and ecological conservation. However, people may also become dangerously dependent on technology, and perhaps even obsessed with it (I would wager there are some such people who already fit that description). For instance, how much of a slave are you to your cell phone? How much TV do you find yourself watching? How much time do you spend on the computer and the Internet? Do you need to have the latest technology as soon as it hits stores, a la IPod, IPad, IPhone, and so on and so forth? How many pieces of technology do you come in contact with during a given day and for how long?

Many people will not bat an eye when answering these questions, even if the answers tremendously favor technological use. Many folks see nothing wrong with supposed "over-dependence" on technology. Alternatively, they wouldn't even notice over-dependence if it knocked them over the head with an IPad. There's no denying that technology is a beautiful thing, and one of the crown jewels of our species. Like most things in life, moderation is key. Overdoses of anything can be poisonous, even water (how crazy is that!).

There is often something lovely about doing simple activities in uncomplicated ways. Sure, technology can represent that time-saving element that allows us to turn our attention to other priorities. However, technology also manages to suck up vast amounts of time with endless distractions and pointless offerings. I'm not necessarily advocating being a monk (if you could see my head, you'd notice it's not shaved, and I haven't given up all my worldly possessions Siddartha-style), but there are necessary boundaries to be drawn in order to enjoy life to the fullest (in my book, at least). One can only follow one's own internal compass and try to recognize when technology is harmful rather than helpful.