Technology has infected the human brain

On my recent visit to the Apple store, I felt a little out of place. Now, I consider myself to be a pretty cool guy, but when the median age of the clients and sales force is around 18, well… this 49 year old felt like a grandfather. I was approached by a very friendly sales associate and asked how I could be helped. I stated my reason and she used her electronic device communicator device to summon another employ. She told me “Ian” would be here in 91 seconds. I was really impressed. My 19-year-old sales associate Ian says to me, “I see that you ordered a replacement for your ear buds. You can pay here and I will get your order.” “Cool…sounds good” I replied as a shameless response to feel hip. While waiting for my order, I began to survey the room as it was busting near patron capacity. “Millions” of people walking around “connected” to their iPhone or iPad, walking around without noticing where they are going. There were a few close calls and collisions but people seemed to somewhat be aware of the environment. I guess after multiple trips, they know the room configuration. This microcosm of people dwelling within their own silos in the Apple universe, but somehow managed to maintain ethics of human culture by actually talking to one another. 

My good friend Ian was standing next to me using his iPhone. I said to him, “You know, technology has infected the human brain.” His reply, “Yeah, I cannot live without my iPhone.” He simply walked away to retrieve my order. He returned and smiled saying have a great evening Mr. Brown.” I smiled and navigated my way out of the retail establishment. Overall, I was impressed with the level of customer service I received. Well done.

Is this what we have been reduced to? I mean, what’s next…we’ll be able to connect a USB drive directly into our brains to download/upload information? It’s like The Matrix warmed over. The basic and fundamental communication principles are deteriorating right before our eyes. People text each other while standing next to each other. We rarely use the telephone to converse with one another. All of my thoughts are now considered tweets. Really?? I am concerned that technology is taking the reigns and dominating sectors of the human intellect. Yes, it’s a great tool to be utilized to aid our daily tasks and routine activities, but it should never consume our thoughts, “I cannot live without it.” A good friend of mine has two smart phones and a tablet. When talking to him, it’s like I am competing for his attention. He’s suffering from information overload. He’s currently in smart phone rehab. I fear it maybe too late. I’ll keep you posted on his condition.