The Flight from Conversation by Sherry Turkle Essay

The Flight from Conversation by Sherry Turkle - Essay Example The researcher states that Sherry Turkle says that people assume the constant connection to digital devices is similar to having a real conversation but this is not the case. In her analyses, she feels that people have forgotten the value of face-to-face communication to grow as individuals. This creates a sense of loneliness even if one is connected to many people through technology; hence, it remains a lonely situation because there is no deep connection and trust built through online contacts. I partially agree with Turkle’s opinion because the constant use of technology has reduced the need for face-to-face conversations. Turkles argues that technology today has engulfed every part of people’s lives and face-to-face relations are already forgotten. It is clear that at home, at work, among friends, and anywhere people are the habit of â€Å"alone together† is more appreciated. This means that people do not meet with each other but connect through mobile phones and other digital devices only a scenario where people are with each other and elsewhere at the same time connected through technology. Turkle asserts that the young people are especially engulfed with technology without taking time to relate through oral conversations. Nevertheless, they are not the only ones, as Turkle claims that even business people, mothers at home, and even children we are all consumed with technology â€Å"each of us is in our own bubble†. Turkle believes that this behavior is rampant because people like to be in control, just pay attention to only what they want, and manage the communication. She argues that face to face communication develops slowly, requires patient, and one is not in control, even in instances when it becomes boring, therefore, many try to avoid it. People assume that in the real world nobody listens, while technology like social media connects a person to many others. In this way, people feel they will be heard, focus on what the y want, and do have to be lonely. Turkle posits that this technology separates people instead of uniting them and therefore, it is important to start listening to one another. Critical Evaluation I largely agree with Turkle that technology has engulfed the society and has changed how people communicate since it is common to see people with cell phones all the time while eating, reading, and in social events. It is true that technology separates people because by being engaged with the technological devices such as phones or computers all the time implies that one has less time connecting with people in the real world. The mode of communication a decade ago is extremely different from modern times considering that chatting and emailing especially on social media is a common norm for many people whether in workplaces, in school, or even at home. Young people are especially vulnerable to technology since they have grown in an era where technology is everywhere, and to make it worse sti ll many of these kids search for homework material or assignments from the internet and not in books. Group discussions are less common today in school than it was years ago because many would rather be on their iPads. Personally, being one of the users of technology in many aspects of my life, I always carry my cell phone everywhere I go to ensure that I do not miss a call, tweet or a text from friends. Having a cell phone is a usual habit for many people since it is easy to use, convenient, and above all, it is always available when needed.