The ways that we communicate now that we have such easy access to technology has changed. I am not trying to say technology is a bad thing , I just think that certain things have been lost in terms of our personal relationships. We used to wait for ways such as letters for us to talk to each other when we are away. I think this has taken away from the specialness of us trying to communicate. Writing a letter is much more personal than a text message or a e-mail. You had to take your time to write a letter and mail it.
Now that we can write e-mail or send a text while we are multitasking we don’t take time to think about the personal aspect that were missing. Its hard to understand the inflection that someone has when they’re typing an e-mail, or how they’re feeling. With letters or phone calls its much more personal. Now with the Internet we are used to having communication at all times. We never really are alone. All you have to do is send out a mass e-mail or text and we are immediately connected to whomever we want.
Also, the fact that we have this technology makes it easy for us to avoid communication when it is hard. Instead of talking in person or over the phone about something uncomfortable or important we send a text or e-mail. We can hide behind our screens. I think that because of this when we do actually have to face something without technology we are more awkward about it. It will be interesting to see if this trend progresses as technology does.
Communication has changed dramatically as a result of technology. When I need something from my friends, I usually send a text message instead of calling and asking. A text is quicker and involves less energy than an actual phone conversation. I don’t even remember the last time I wrote someone a letter since email is much more convenient. Plus, with texts and emails, I don’t have to respond right away. I can take my time replying to whatever was sent to me. Yes, it is a way to avoid awkward and uncomfortable topics. But this also allows people a chance to actually think before they speak. Some people don’t think as quickly as others, and might say something accidently when talking over the phone or face to face. With this new technology, people have the time to choose their words carefully and make sure they convey the correct idea or meaning. Technology has changed the way we communicate, but it is for the better.
ReplyDeleteI think that technology helps our relationships grow. Instead of waiting on letters we can be instantly contacted through text messages and phone calls. Long distance relationships would be nearly impossible if modern technology did not exist. For example Facebook helps connect friends and family from all over the world. Without modern technology, going far away from home for school would be much scarier. It is comforting to be able to call home and hear a familiar voice. It makes conversation more personal than reading a written letter every few days or weeks.
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that our ways of communication has drastically changed as technology has progressed, causing us to lose key skills when it comes to our personal relationships. It is so funny that you wrote about this topic because I just had a conversation over this exact topic with my mom over break. She believes that writing letters is better way of communication, and much more personal. It shows that he/she was thinking about you enough to write a letter as oppose to sending a text, which is virtually effortless. I also have to agree that technology has allowed us to avoid the awkward, hard conversation that no one really wants to have. Text messaging, e-mailing etc. allows us to hide behind our emotions. I have had countless friends whose boyfriends break up with them via text message because they were either too nervous or too scared to pick up the phone or do it in person. I think this topic is very appropriate and I am glad to see the issue voiced.
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ReplyDeleteGorgeous writing here. You really have a unique way of putting great thoughts and opinions together. I completely agree with your argument, especially the part of the "specialness of communication." A lot of respect has been lost in the informal developments of communication. Although advancements in technology have led to faster and more efficient communication, some formalities have been lost. In many cases sending a text as opposed to a phone call can give the wrong impression and seem disrespectful. This post is my favorite by far. Excellent.
ReplyDeleteYou definitely bring up a very valid point. I must say that I agree with both sides of the argument. Though there is some aspect of social skills which are lacking through the all of the various ways of communication through technological advances, technology in many ways enhances our communication skills. Through social networks such as Facebook, e-mail, and iChat, we now have simply a broader horizon of ways to connect with people. However, how often do we write letters or pick up the phone to give a message instead of sending a text or an e-mail? I think it is imperative that we remember the importance of holding on to our social abilities and not let technology overcome them.
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