As demonstrated in Sherry Turkle’s “The Flight from Conversation,” our world is reaching devastating heights in its inability to communicate and function interpersonally without the aid of technology. Social networking, texting, and blogging all are meant to bring us closer together, when in all reality they tend to build invisible walls and boundaries between us.
So why is this issue becoming so prevalent? Is it because self-acceptance is more easily achieved when one can edit themselves in a photo or post? Or because it’s so much less of a hassle to “throw someone a text” than to actually meet up with them face to face? In part, yes. But I believe, as Sherry alludes, that the problem roots much deeper.
We, as a people, have been losing faith in humanity. Fear has sown itself deep within us; rejection and misunderstanding are an ever-present menace that could potentially appear at any time when conversing and confiding in another person. However, when dealing with machines, one can seek solace in its inability to act against its programming. If it is told to listen, it does so without judgment or disinterest. And although it lacks the capacity to understand, connect, or even sympathize, it still fulfills our needs on a very basic level, which is easier than making oneself vulnerable to another person, who might attack or wound us. It “provides the illusion of companionship without the demands of a relationship.” It is easy.
Through the internet and text, people can be, think and say whatever they please. Hiding behind their ideal identity, they do not have to open up and be real with anyone, including themselves. This over-association with technology is damaging our society. It almost hinders us from forming true and lasting bonds with other people, and from being capable of dealing with ourselves when we’re alone. We cling to the “constant connection” we have with the pictures our “friends” paint of themselves, never realizing the bliss we’re missing in a true, personal relationship and conversation.
Separation from technology is vital, or we shall soon become irreparably fragile and unable to function without that 13th “like,” that “hey” text we received from Johnny, or that irreplaceable chat we had with Siri over lunch break.
So thoughtfully written, Polly. Your third paragraph hit home for me and put the issue in new words. We fear vulnerability, but I believe that is part of our nature. At the same time, however, we need relationship, deep friendships, and meaningful conversation and those are at their best when we are vulnerable with each other. When we break our barriers and open up to someone, it doesn’t lead to loneliness. Instead it forms a stronger tie with that person (given they are respectful and sincerely desire friendship with us too) and we know someone is with us on our journey. It’s hard and messy and confusing and opens up the possibility of hurt, but the best things don’t come easily. I know that’s cliche but it’s been true in my life!