Modern Communication Technologies

There was an article in yesterday’s The Sydney Morning Herald “Faster Than A Speeding Bullet: Generation Wi-Fi is Changing the World” which looked at those under 30 and the communication technologies of their generation.  It made for interesting reading in respect to communication in the 21^st century.

A lot has been written about the Internet and social media and how it is being used in the world today.  Not all of it positive.  Some suggest that modern technologies are narcissistic and destroying social cohesion as we know it.  Others believe it is inclusive and positive.  These comments are not new and similar comments can be attributed to previous generations with emerging technologies of that particular era.

Modern platforms allow us to be connected wherever we go.  One small device can be a phone, allow us to check our email or Facebook and book a restaurant all within minutes of each other wherever we are.  This is a vast difference to face to face communication not that long ago and as such mobile communication could be considered disruptive.

However, whether modern communication platforms are positive or negative really misses the point.  These technologies are here to stay and we must adapt to them and we will.  Each generation eventually adjusts to what is placed in front of it although most of the time there is resistance.  Change for most people is difficult.  The status quo is always preferred and individuals feel comfortable with what they know.  But society does adapt and before long we will have something else to fuss over!

Some argue that technologies today are built on the skill and knowledge of previous generations and as such are not new but rather further developed with current knowledge.

Would love to hear what you think.  Are modern technologies frustrating or are they simply the development of society?