Creating a Culture of Connection or Disconnect?

One swipe of your phone will have you connected to multiple locations, hundreds and thousands of kilometres away, transcending the human’s physical ability of communication. But what has this connection really done for us? The efficiency of this technology has led to exponential growth and expansion in many areas, but in terms of human emotional connectivity what have we done?

By creating multiple social platforms of communication at speeds and abilities surpassing the human body’s abilities, we have implanted a mechanical method of connection. Now of course, there is a large amount of positive connection that can be obtained through technological means. It provides an ample means of communication through distances which would not be possible otherwise. But there seems to be a lot that it is lacking in authenticity.

The ease of all this communication can make real, authentic connections face to face harder to make and keep. Replacing them with profile photos of online friends and followers. The preoccupation of impressing others in this dimension results in often the loss of integrity and respect where these real connections are being pursued but are forever out of grasp.

So what can be done to reinstate these real, emotional, physical connections with others? Throw your iPhones down the toilet! Bankrupt apple! Huzzah! Well no, that may achieve something in your life but it also may subsequently hinder a lot of constructive aspects which these devices possess.

So here’s the proposal. Whilst out enjoying the company of others, be in the present moment and enjoy the company. Rather than being pre-occupied by what photos you can upload on Instagram to make others know just how much fun you’re having, actually have that fun in the moment. If you care for someone and you have the physical ability to show them in your being, in your actions, then go forth and do that rather than waiting to post something for everyone to see.

Look up, look outward, and embrace your surroundings rather than channeling all your energy into a world which only offers temporary gratification. Be occupied with the now, the creation of the physical, mental and emotional ties with those around you. Use this technology in moderation to spread information and help grow relationships rather than bring them down.

When used in moderation and with a positive purpose, social media platforms and related technology can enhance one's life. But be mindful in the way you use these outlets. Are you perpetuating a culture of connection or disconnect?

(Artwork: Mary Lou Zelazny)