Technology is seductive when what it offers meets our human vulnerabilities. And as it turns out, we are very vulnerable indeed. We are lonely but fearful of intimacy. Digital connections and the sociable robot may offer the illusion of companionship without the demands of friendship. Our networked life allows us to hide from each other, even as we are tethered to each other. Weโd rather text than talk.
Sherry TurkleItโs a way of life to be always texting and when you looks at these texts it really is thoughts in formation. I do studies where I just sit for hours and hours at red lights watching people unable to tolerate being alone. Its as though being along has become a problem that needs to be solved and then technology presents itself as a solution to this problemโฆBeing alone is not a problem that needs to be solved. The capacity for solitude is a very important human skill.
Sherry TurkleDoes virtual intimacy degrade our experience of the other kind and, indeed, of all encounters, of any kind?
Sherry TurkleWhat I'm seeing is a generation that says consistently, 'I would rather text than make a telephone call.' Why? It's less risky. I can just get the information out there. I don't have to get all involved; it's more efficient. I would rather text than see somebody face to face.
Sherry Turkle