Connected

but
Alone
Shirley Turkle

Tabagoy, Robie Rosa G.

BSN-YA-22
 "Those small things in our pockets (mobile phones) are
so psychologically strong that they don't just affect what
we do, they transform who we are," Shirley Turkle stated in
her TED talk. Technology had a significant influence on
human interactions. It either benefited us or destroyed the
true nature of communication.

Turkle stated that when the internet first became available in

1996, she was most enthusiastic about "the idea that we would use what
we learned in the virtual world about ourselves, about our identity, to live
better lives in the real world." However, in 2012, she claims that "we're
letting technology lead us somewhere we don't want to go." This assertion
is based on the grounds of how frequently we use our phones, which
ranges from texting during corporate board meetings to having dinner
with family, hanging out with friends, and even attending funerals.
We can see how technology has become one of the barriers to
communication. We grew more concentrated and reliant on our devices.
Turkle has a valid point. I've been in situations when I'm around my family
and friends but my mind is on my social media sites. It's awful to think that
we're becoming more dependant on our cellphones, computers, and other
electronic devices. We were left alone. And we attempt to address that by
connecting, by interacting with individuals on social media. But we're still
lonely.
Her observations were brutally true—even while listening to the
presentation, I caught myself absentmindedly glancing at my phone, and I
regularly skim through social media throughout the day in a meaningless
attempt to feel connected to people. When I should be sleeping or enjoying
some alone time at night, I browse at my phone till I fall asleep. Though I love
face-to-face conversations, when I have a disagreement, I occasionally
choose to text rather than engage in person.
Turkle's TEDtalk ended with an optimistic message about using
"digital technology, the technology of our dreams, to make this
life the life we can love." Too much of anything is always
dangerous. Always know how to set boundaries for yourself.
Also, keep in mind that we must learn how to be alone, as well
as the benefits of solitude. We should not rely on others for our
joy and fulfillment since they are not a substitute component
to be used when you are lonely.