After looking at many different articles and discussing the matter with my classmates, I believe that technology can be used most efficiently when used in moderation. By only allowing yourself to use a cell phone for its intended purpose of making phone calls, you completely eliminate the chance of receiving an overwhelming amount of information online while also staying connected to those you don’t typically see every day. While some may argue that completely abolishing technology is the best way to connect to the real world, Alexandra Samuel explains in her article “Plug in Better” that completely unplugging sets up a negative environment where you find yourself wishing you were back on your phone away from the negativity. Think about the times when you’ve seen parents break from a heated argument with family to tell their kids “no phones at the table” just to resume arguing and not conversing with them. In this situation, the parents are upset that the kids aren’t following their “no phones” rule and the kids are annoyed that nobody is talking to them and bored beyond comprehension because they still can’t use their phones. In my family we found a compromise; if nobody is talking to you then, yes, you can use your phone but when you’re talking to somebody you don’t use your phone. We also use a type of “common courtesy” rule as well, that being any situation where you aren’t sure if it’s okay to use your phone you don’t use it. For me and many others, finding the balance between when we should and shouldn’t use our phones has made family time, and life in general, much more enjoyable. By limiting our time online and the amount of information we expose ourselves to, we will be better equipped to experience life both in the real world and online with purpose.
