How We May Be Becoming Gadgets

The first reading assignment for You Are Not a Gadget presents a valid argument for why the individual needs to differentiate himself from his networking gadgets. Reflecting on much of what Lanier says, however, can prove to be slightly depressing. This dismal thought process began when Lanier discussed the concept of being "locked-in" and how it can influence a market for decades. This concept can be combined with the idea that computers artificialize individuals, leading to the conclusion that out next generation, who have grown up completely in the digital age, will be inherently less human than past generations.

When I was 12 or 13 I wasn't supposed to have a Myspace or Facebook account, and having one at that age was for the most part uncommon. For me, a memorable part of my early teens was hiding my Facebook account from my parents, even though I eventually came to notice that they didn't care. Today, though, it is not uncommon to see children as young as 8 or 10 on Facebook. In fact, some children feel as though they are 'missing out' if they aren't allowed to create one at such a young age.

These children are growing up too closely with technology, in my opinion. Whereas children in the 90s played with toys and did things outside, children today are increasingly becoming attached to gadgets such as cell phones, ipods, and computers. I believe this will result in a generation of less socially adept individuals. In fact, I can see the same factors affecting my generation.