Lately I've been considering the impact technology has had on the social aspect of our lives.
In the library, I have seen our modern tech be both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it enables people to easily search out what books exist on their chosen topic and figure out roughly where to find them at. It also tells them if it is in their current library, or if another nearby library possesses their desired literature. On the other hand, it turns otherwise polite and quiet patrons into almost-shouting cell phone users and can often hamper people's study time with unnecessary distractions.
Over all, modern technology can be a great advantage, allowing us to contact our friends at a moment's notice and arrange meet ups. It can let people from small, isolated towns get to know a wide array of other people, and it allows friends to keep in touch despite being miles apart.
But one thing I have noticed at times: social learning seems to be declining. At one point in time, you would find a friend or relative who knew a lot about a particular thing, and you would ask them about it. They might give you a verbal description or teach you in a hands-on style. It could be a fantastic way to get a conversation started and strengthen a friendship (or maybe forge a new one!).
Nowadays? I've had a good number of times when I try to ask someone about a topic they are proficient in and in return I am told "Why are you asking me? Just Google it."
Internet searches are always around. Technology will always be advancing. Your friends and acquaintances, however, are likely to move on at some point. Is it a waste of time to have a conversation with someone who is genuinely interested in the things you do or know? I think not. You might be just the help and encouragement they need- and you know what? There is always a chance that they could be the same to you too, if you just take the time.
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