Digital Dependency: The Cost of Connection

Some of us will check email on our Blackberry, G1 or Iphone every few minutes because of a need to feel wanted. Others will talk for hours on their cell phone because they don’t have the courage or desire to strike up a meaningful conversation with a stranger; a young activists blocks out all the bullshit by listening to Skinny Puppy, while couples “sext” each other raunchy IMs because they wouldn’t dare say such things in person.

Our digital world hasn’t enhanced our connections; instead, it has distanced us from the richness of human experiences. We have become far too dependent on technology, to the point where we feel we can’t live without it. And that very thought is the seed of all our confusion.

We weren’t born with these gadgets, and they won’t accompany us when we leave this world. They are, like every other man-made wonder, temporary distractions — “toys” if you will, to play with while we wander through life. It is true, that technology has opened the door to information that would not or could not have been accessible to a vast majority of the human population, but at what price? We have to ask the question: “Am I really happier now that I have the latest Blackberry? Similarly, is that illiterate villager happier or better off now that they have access to the Disney channel? In a superficial way, yes, but if we really dig deep and look at the experience from the spiritual paradigm, the answer is a resounding NO! How can it be when the very essence of our existence here is transitory and meant only for awakening to the higher reality of spirit. Human life is a blessing from which the soul can once and for all escape this cycle of birth and death, and yet, modern man has created a life in which we have become fixated on electronic pulses and the glamor of owning new stuff, all the while losing touch with our innate need to love and be loved as souls.

As a way to fight this addiction to technology, I have begun to periodically turn off my cell phone and walk away from the computer to breath fresh air, take in the world without the use of a computer screen or sound system, and force myself to interact with other humans around me by smiling, watching them, speaking to them and just trying to be human once again.

If we wish to evolve, we simply must “turn off” this technology and start living as do all other animate beings in this world. I acknowledge the irony of using technology to write this blog, but while it’s available, I choose to use it constructively. It’s sort of like using your legs to help you get back up off the ground after those same legs had just tripped you up and made you fall. Or using the thorn of the rose bush to dig another thorn out of your hand. Get the point?

Yes, it’s a relevant point, but, herein lies the problem: It is easy to justify any use of communication technology, for in many ways it has or is helping us survive. For example, in saving the life of someone after they called 911, or in stealthily alerting someone through text messaging, when it was not possible to call out. However, that is not the core argument I wish to make. What I am becoming increasingly uneasy about is the overwhelming amount of time that these gadgets have taken over our lives, to the point where we have forgotten how to connect with people one on one, face to face, by exchanging warm and meaningful words that are accompanied by real facial expressions and not some emoticon on a text screen. 🙂

The same applies to the growth of social networking applications like Facebook, Twitter and the Grand daddy of them all, Google, with it’s plethora of applications like Gmail that seek to make our lives better, all the while taking more and more of our privacy away. There is whole movement developing now to shut down facebook accounts (Facebook refusenicks). Indeed, there is even a site called Arsebook that helps people to connect to people they hate! I can’t understand why, but I digress. The point is that along with the growth of these social media mavens, there are millions of people now canceling their online accounts or not even bothering to sign up at all, simply because they feel the trade-off of convenience is far outweighed by the loss of privacy. We’ve become a society that is so dumbed down that we openly welcome anyone into our life, even if they have ill intentions. I mean, unless you have gone in an changed your privacy settings on Facebook, by default you are allowing friends of friends and sometimes “anyone” to view your complete profile, what to speak of when you install those cute little applications that enable you to send a gift or vote for a charity, etc. All of them clearly state that they will access your personal information, but we don’t bother to read the fine print and just click, click, click to install that app to our Facebook account. This reflects the carelessness and mindlessness prevalent in our culture today. Why? Because we have been systematically “undressed” by large corporations and the media through carefully crafted Nuero-linguistic programming, to the point where most people have no idea that the elephant is literally sitting in their living room.

I urge everyone to limit their use of communication technology and reconnect with the fundamentals of interacting with people, animals, and nature. To ensure our species’ survival and spiritual growth, we must take action now!

FAQ

Q: How does technology affect our ability to connect?

A: Technology, while facilitating communication, often impedes genuine human interaction. It creates a false sense of connection, leading to isolation and a lack of meaningful relationships. By prioritizing digital interactions, we risk losing the depth and warmth of face-to-face communication.

Q: What are the signs of digital dependency?

A: Signs include constant device usage, anxiety when disconnected, and prioritizing online interactions over real-life relationships. This dependency can lead to a diminished ability to engage in meaningful, in-person conversations and a reduced appreciation for the present moment.

Q: How can we improve genuine connection in a digital age?

A: To foster genuine connection, set boundaries on technology use, prioritize face-to-face interactions, and engage in activities that encourage presence and mindfulness. Regularly disconnecting from devices can help rediscover the joy of personal interactions and the beauty of the natural world.

Q: How does technology affect our ability to connect?

A: Technology, while offering convenience and instant communication, often creates superficial connections. It can distract us from meaningful face-to-face interactions, leading to a sense of isolation despite being constantly “connected.”

Q: What are the benefits of disconnecting from technology?

A: Disconnecting from technology allows us to engage more deeply with the world around us. It fosters genuine human interactions, reduces stress, and helps us appreciate the present moment without digital distractions.

Q: How can we balance technology use and real-world connections?

A: Setting boundaries on technology use, such as designated screen-free times, can help balance digital interactions with real-world connections. Prioritizing face-to-face communication and being mindful of technology’s role in our lives are key strategies.

Q: How does digital dependency impact mental health?

A: Digital dependency can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression due to constant connectivity and lack of real-life interactions. Balancing technology use with offline activities is crucial for mental well-being.

Q: What are some ways to reduce digital dependency?

A: Set specific times to check devices, engage in offline hobbies, and establish tech-free zones at home. These practices can help reduce reliance on digital devices.

Q: Can digital dependency affect physical health?

A: Yes, excessive screen time can lead to physical issues like eye strain, poor posture, and disrupted sleep patterns. Taking regular breaks and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can mitigate these effects.

Q: How does digital dependency affect children?

A: Children may experience reduced attention spans, impaired social skills, and increased risk of cyberbullying. Encouraging outdoor play and limiting screen time can help counteract these effects.

Q: What role does mindfulness play in combating digital dependency?

A: Mindfulness encourages present-moment awareness and can help individuals recognize and reduce their reliance on digital devices, fostering healthier habits and connections.

Q: How can workplaces address digital dependency?

A: Workplaces can promote digital well-being by encouraging breaks, setting boundaries on after-hours communication, and fostering a culture of work-life balance.