I believe that balance is everything in life. The Information Age or Digital Age in which we live, allows for information and digital communication available whenever the user finds fit. Many users, then, are amongst the people that have trouble deciphering a healthy limit. Our culture is so overexposed with the constant discovery of newer and smarter technology that the boundless access never seems like enough. Not that anyone thinks enough is ever enough. My argument here is that there is much to fear when it comes to the power of the internet and all of which we are exposed to everyday.
When the internet was available and later faster connections became available the communication environments increased greatly (Haider 2004). Therefore, the content in which people were revealed to became increasingly boundless and indulgent. It was no longer just at their work computer or at a wealthy friend’s desktop setup but now readily available to people at all times, at all measures, no matter the content. While this is fine, according to one’s own moral ethics, it poses a problem when young teenagers or children become overexposed and able to get information that has caused fatalities and confusion. The availability and flexibility of computer-mediated communications has offered to young people the “out” when forced to deal with problems face to face. The balancing act and protection of users, I believe, is something we may need to fear, as it is directly effecting our future generations.
As the Haider article mentions many experienced users have become more cautious online. To try and regain control some of the balance people are now taking more precautions of what they do with their information online. This, I feel, is a way to lean toward what we know as individuals, which is not to trust completely or conform completely to the ways of the internet world.
While I am one that prefers face to face as the preferred communication, it is in my own experience that I have found fear and hope are the perfect balance when accepting the freshness of computer-mediated communication. It is in this type of communication where both positive and negative culture is being formed. I am sure that as many more new and innovative ideas come to surface hope and fears will be found within them as well.
I completely agree with you that there is a big problem with young teenagers becoming overexposed and are able to get information that shouldn't be available. Just now, to prove a point, I searched "how to commit suicide" and stumbled on a website that lists different ways to commit suicide. Another big problem for teens now is online bullying. I feel like in the last 2 years there have been so many stories about cyber-bullying going to far and its aftermath.
ReplyDeleteI agree, the internet is too opened for everyone! The world biggest problems today, I believe are started by the internet. If they want to create new technology, it should be involved around preventing our your from too much exposure!
ReplyDeleteLike anything, balance is a good thing. That's why I like to have my "decompression" time, whether it be a day, a weekend, or a 10 day vacation just to get away from all the emails, text messages and phone calls. I love my technology but I also like to get away from it all.
ReplyDeleteThe internet is open to all ages I wont be surprise if they have website for 5 years old to log in. lol Balance is always good in life especially when it comes to technology and regular life because technology can be addictive. Until the point you will not move infront the computer.
ReplyDeleteWith great power comes great responsibility. I agree that with the good comes the bad, but I agree with you. We have become over exposed to it. I don't know how to stop it either. It is passed the point where using a computer is optional. Even our school requires it to check email and sign up for classes or pay bills. There is no limit to this machine.
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