Analysis of The Flight from Conversation by Sherry Turkle - Article Example

Evaluative Essay on “The Flight from Conversation” b, Sherry Turkle Introduction The article “The Flight from Conversation” written by Sherry Turkle focuses on the need and use of technology in modern times. Turkle argues that people today put a lot of time and emphasize on technological devices like cellphones, iPhones, and other digital objects instead of focusing on individual growth. She 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 (Turkle). Summary Turkle’s 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 “alone together” is more appreciated (Turkle). 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 “each of us is in our own bubble” (Turkle). 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 they 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 (Turkle). 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 cellphones 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 still 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 (Turkle). Personally, being one of the users of technology in many aspects of my life, I always carry my cellphone everywhere I go to ensure that I do not miss a call, tweet or a text from friends. Having a cellphone is a usual habit for many people since it is easy to use, convenient, and above all, it is always available when needed. Sherry asserts that when people loss connection through technology they feel lonely or in an environment that is new. This reminds me of a recent incident while in the elevator, I avoided talking to a person who came after me and I resorted to fiddling with my phone. It was in an effort to avoid any kind of awkward conversation that may have risen while making small talk. This kind of behavior is what Sherry terms as the main cause of separating people since it prevents people from interacting with new individuals. The face-to-face communication seems threatening to many people but through social media, it is easy to speak even with strangers. Oral communication links through the real world are less and many people prefer the social media that seems exciting and inviting (Turkle). I believe that the constant use of modern technology prevents many people from learning and understanding how relationships develop. This is because a person can meet a friend for the first time and through face-to-face communication, it is easier to know about this individual. However, if the contact is through social media it is easy to mislead someone regarding one’s personality, behavior, and other important factors that lead to the growth of a relationship. I believe that constant and enduring connection through technology is likely to make a person a loner. For instance, a student who does not talk to others in class or outside but only listens to music or browses social feeds is bound to lag behind when it comes to making a meaningful face to face communication (Turkle). However, I disagree with some sentiments that Sherry brings forth about technology. If technology is used right, it brings forth benefits to an individual and society as a whole. There are people who are able to balance connection with technology and still maintain healthy relationships with people in the real world. In my case, I am in various social media cites and use several devices to communicate with people but I also maintain close face-to-face communication with friends and families. It is wrong for Sherry to create an impression as if everything about technology is negative with no benefits to the society at all. Many people in the society today, use technology for meaningful activities like contacting family who lives far from home. I maintain a healthy relationship with my family where we spend time in the sitting room chatting and laughing about various issues. It is definitely healthy to use technology but in controlled doses and not continuously all the time being on the cellphone or other digital devices (Turkle). Conclusion Sherry Turkle article on “The Flight from Conversation” is enlightening on how technology has taken over the lives of many people. She argues that communication through technology has eroded the concept of face-to-face communication within the society. I agree with Turkle in most level that many people are totally engulfed with technology to have any meaningful real life relationships. However, I also hold that there are people who use technology responsibly to better their day-today lives since it is a necessary part of our lives (Turkle). Work Cited Turkle, Sherry. “The Flight From Conversation.” The New York Times, 21 Apr. 2012. Web. 9 Oct. 2013. Read More