Yesterday we compared the 1960 version of The Time Machine to the 2002 version. The differences between the two accent the dramatic impact technology has had on our culture over the past 40 years (and even more so in the 13 years since).
I remember, back in the "olden days" when computers were large enough to require entire rooms. My boyfriend in high school had a job working nights. Each night the company would back up their computer systems. He would have to change the tape (magnetic tapes?) when they became full. In between changes, he work on his homework. Ironically, today we can back up our data onto a thumb drive whenever we wish in a few seconds, yet I never can seem to remember to do this.
Our relationship with technology has changed from a cold, dark tool used to process information to highly personalized parts of us. The iPhone has frequently been called "cute" and are customizable both from apple, as well as individually manufactured cases. People feel lost without their SmartPhone and use them to really function in today's world. They have become a part of us - causing panic when one thinks they might have misplaced it - or, gasp - left it at home which naturally means they must immediately leave and go get it.
I can't really criticize too much about using technology. This summer we experienced a significant loss when the grad student staple, Giant Eagle, closed. Lost with no convenient place to shop for groceries or sushi, we are consoling our selves in knowing that amazon prime is only a click away. While they won't deliver fresh sushi to us, they will at least, deliver the staples we need to get us through.
Hi Debbie. What a fascinating blog post.
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ReplyDeleteWow! This blog post is fascinating!
ReplyDeleteI really should have used your format. It is much easier to read than mine! I also like how you related it to your own tech experiences. I remember the "olden" days, too, when actually owning a computer was like so cool! Thank you for your mention of good ol' Giant Eagle! Good thing you can get Sea Salt and Chocolate Kind bars in 2 days from Amazon Prime! :)
ReplyDeleteHurrah for technology!! As long as it makes life easier, enjoyable and helps us stay healthy. I remember going to EPCOT Center in the early 80s when it first opened, and I recall being completely in awe at the futurist technology displayed. I haven't been back to EPCOT in years, but I wouldn't be surprised if the technology displayed back in the 80s is today part of our everyday lives. The future is now. ;o)
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