With the constantly changing technology of thee 21st century, internet usage and social platforms online have impacted, and in some cases, reversed traditional and societal norms that previous generations learned and embraced. With the development of “smart phones” and the ever-growing use of the internet, more information, propaganda, and communication methods are being forced into the developmental minds of young people. The rising generation is resorting to text messages via phones and apps to communicate, and relying on “emojis” and abbreviations that bear a great likeness to ancient hieroglyphs. By continually advancing, the current generation is unintentionally preparing for an economically inflated, socially deprived, and physically effortless living style. By continuing to rely on technology, humans will lose the definition and literal sense of humanity becoming entitled, unfocused, socially disabled.
While many people are embracing this new lifestyle and conforming to its expectations, less and less people are trying to combat the ever-present effects. Facebook statuses, 140 character tweets, and ostentatious Instagram photos are taking the place of physical, in-depth news articles and television reports. Young adults are looking to their pocket devices for a taste of biased, often incorrect, reports of the world around them. With celebrities and famed families leading the international trend, many people are following. The benefits once provided by internet access have advanced faster than humans can comprehend thus becoming harmful to minds still in transition. Not to mention the hindrance of social skills, minds train to work faster and differently than is healthy for the rest of one's body.
Access to search engines such as Google and Bing are very helpful to students and educators in forming curriculum and conducting research. Email allows fast communication between thousands of people. Access to sites such as LinkedIn and other work-based websites create vast communities and aid in work and employment. Tinder, however, can promote rape culture, Facebook is a source to bully, and Snapchat can be used a platform for underage sexting. Phones in the classroom cause a distraction and constant texting makes younger people anxious when communicating in person. Snail mail has become a lost idea and the once expected "Thank You" notes have been traded for a quick Facebook Messenger blurb. The original ideas and purpose for such access were to create unity and promote productivity. In just a few years, the original idea contorted to a new way of life and possibility for addiction. Rehabilitation centers have actually been established in many cities as a result of human’s newest obsession, and many are already overbooked. Cell phones have become a drug rather than a resource. It is important to treat every gift with respect and appreciation, but the gift of technology has become misconstrued with the development of mind numbing apps such as Angry Bird and ABC which allows for the viewing of television shows if you missed it's traditional air time due to a computer game.
While there are so many benefits to the internet, it is man’s addictive nature, competitive mindset, and desire for ease that make cellphones, tablets, and computer usage dangerous. Through set time limits, restrictive use of technology in public, and the promotion of alternatives to technology, a path can be cleared for the next generation to turn to other options. People must learn to enjoy recent advancements rather than rely so heavily on them. Stricter guidelines in schools and larger budgets for classroom books can prevent the integration of cell phone use and reliance student’s feel in everyday situations. It is important to recognize the benefits and reap reward, but in the effort of maintaining some sliver of the essence of humanity, it is necessary every now and then to put away the small glowing screen for a look at the big glowing stars.
