I've lived in a third world country in relatively primitive conditions after being born and raised in the United States. The truth is that it was a completely different world -- in many ways far richer than my current life as a software developer.
Like many who responded, I often find myself a slave to the machine. At least eight hours a day in front of a computer. The problem is that once technology has you, it's extremely difficult to get free from it. I love it, and I hate it.
You can champion technology all you want -- the fact is that it's changes are both good and bad. In the United States, there is a great deal of social isolationism (in comparison to many other countries) thanks to the solitary activities encouraged by numerous forms of technology, such as the TV, the Computer, and even the personal automobile.
Try living in a less 'technological' country for a while, you'll see what I mean.
As for 'being in touch with reality' the only way to do it is to get out from behind your machine and see what's out there.
Slashdot Mirror
I've done it --
I've lived in a third world country in relatively primitive conditions after being born and raised in the United States. The truth is that it was a completely different world -- in many ways far richer than my current life as a software developer.
Like many who responded, I often find myself a slave to the machine. At least eight hours a day in front of a computer. The problem is that once technology has you, it's extremely difficult to get free from it. I love it, and I hate it.
You can champion technology all you want -- the fact is that it's changes are both good and bad. In the United States, there is a great deal of social isolationism (in comparison to many other countries) thanks to the solitary activities encouraged by numerous forms of technology, such as the TV, the Computer, and even the personal automobile.
Try living in a less 'technological' country for a while, you'll see what I mean.
As for 'being in touch with reality' the only way to do it is to get out from behind your machine and see what's out there.