A Reflection: Modern Technology

A recurring debate we often hear as teenagers is over the benefit of smartphones and modern technology. Because this topic is often overused and drawn out, I don't intend to answer this question, but rather insist the youth of the world reflect on our values. Smartphones are wondrous devices, as they open up a world of possibilities at our fingertips. Of course, as with most things, there are pros and cons of this feature. I remember, as a kid, innocently watching YouTube videos about my favorite shows and characters that only turned into violent 3D animations that dehumanized the characters I so adored. With that, some of my fondest memories from my childhood are of me and my friends playing Minecraft or watching YouTube videos together. 

Now with smartphones, children not only have access to the wholesome world of Bluey in their pocket, but also the devastatingly cruel world of internet trolls. We, the youth of today, are the generation that has the experience of internet trauma mixed with interweb joys, so why aren't we the ones who are consulted on this issue? As parents, would we give our children this access? What would we restrict? Will we be the generation to finally regulate iPad kids? But I digress, as my main topic of today is over whether or not smartphones are truly isolating like all our parents claim them to be. I remember when I got my first phone in sixth grade. About half the rest of my grade at school did, and I felt so eager to be included in group chats and text chains. I used my phone mostly to text my parents and maybe a few friends. I also used my phone to block classmates who would simply spam chain mail, claiming my mother would be dead by morning if I didn’t forward the message to at least ten of my contacts. Now, five years later, I use my phone for more than just texting. 

Most prominently, I now use social media. I think of all the things I would miss out on if I didn't have a phone. I know, smartphones didn't invent texting- an iPhone is not the only device that is capable of texting someone. But, if I didn't have an iPhone, even then I think of all the things I would miss. I’m in at least three large group chats that someone wasn’t added to because they don’t have an iPhone and nobody wants to go through the hassle of adding an Android and sending those dreaded green texts. Social media is another whole world entirely. Not only can you send messages, but you can watch and scroll through videos and photos. I’ll admit it- I find myself scrolling sometimes a little bit too long, as do most of us- and it makes me feel totally useless. I want to delete instagram! I feel so alone sitting, sadly scrolling through videos of people I’ve never met. 

So why don’t I? Because of the few interactions I have with people who live across the world. Because of a childhood friend who moved away eight years ago and just reached out last week. Because of the photos of my baby cousins who I never get to see in person. All of these simple, minuet interactions through social media are powerful, and clearly powerful enough to keep our interest in the apps. 

While brain breaks are nice, I have never met anyone who feels especially proud of themselves after a mindless scroll session. But I do know people who smile ear-to-ear when they get that sweet video that “reminded me of you” from an old classmate. Isolation is never what I feel through these experiences. I’m grateful for the tools we have, and with moderation, I believe the youth of the world will effectively distinguish between the beneficial and harmful integration of this technology into society.