Comments on Sherry Turkle's "Connected But Alone"
It may only be five years old, but Sherry Turkle's "Connected But Alone" feels dated. Taking an alarmist position on the new generation's use of technology is a time-honoured tradition, and this feels no different. Any new technology is going to have it's pros and cons, and some people will abuse it ; but it's easy to forget that we generally go through this cycle with a lot of major technological advancements. People used to think the telephone would end face-to-face communication. That never came to pass.
What struck me so much about her presentation was that she seemed unaware of the ways digital communication positively affects people. In your hometown, there may only be one other person who shares your interests; but online, the possibilities for connection feel limitless. I also felt that she didn't have a good feel for the manner in which people communicate online or via text. Her slides use examples of online language that are mostly outmoded, and probably were beginning to fall out of vogue at the time of her presentation.
While there are certainly people who use digital communication to replace face-to-face connection, most people use these forms collaboratively. Digital communication won't bring about the death of interpersonal relationships, in the same way that the automobile didn't end walking.
While Turkle’s presentation may be dated, she still raises a valid point. Society is heading in a direction where digital interaction is becoming primary over face to face ones. Why? Convenience, efficiency, less vulnerability, and more control. Yes, digital communication may not be responsible for the demise of face to face ones. However, it’s still leaning towards a negative impact. I agree that digital interaction does have its positives, but its balance and self-awareness that will ultimately determine the road we are heading towards.
ReplyDeleteYour comments certainly made me reassess my own opinion of Turkle's arguments. I can't help but agree that it is a rather alarmist attitude, especially considering the positives that you pointed out. Indeed, I do feel a sense of connection when I use online means of communication. What is more, at the end of the day I can still communicate in person on a one-on-one basis.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, I do see her point that with such a variety of digital communicative devices / methods, we are losing time for self-reflection. That being said, it could be easily argued it is up to the individual to limit their time online or on a device. There are plenty of pictures contrasting a New York subway from the 80s and one from today. Instead of smart-phones, the commuters are absorbed in their newspaper.
I immediately thought of the same thing. I think your takeaway is totally reasonable. People need to manage their internet usage, but it's up to them, and as we get educated about it we'll get better and healthier.
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