“CONNECTED BUT ALONE”

SHERRY TURKLE

Sherry Turkle speaks about the “Connected but Alone” in Ted talk show in
2012, on how technology is having a major impact on our social relationships at this
age. This is a follow-up to her first appearance on the said show in 1996 on the
verge of the creation of chat rooms and online virtual communities. She emphasizes
that the world of technology is taking us together but also separates us from reality.
Turkle illustrates that many individuals seeking recognition, friendship,
companionship, and communication are most likely going to their mobile phones
to communicate with others. This becomes a big issue with our society because
individuals rely on their phones, a technological device instead of relying on others or
human beings. She explains that when people want to interact socially they turn to
their phones and don't pay complete attention to the others or companions they are
with. Family members, friends, colleagues, and members of the community feel
neglected and on to receive the attention or interaction they need. She also indicates
that one has this illusion of companionship without the demands of friendship. Turkle
concludes that we should focus our attention on the relationship with people around
us and not on our illusionary friends in social media and that we should be
connected with real people in the real world. Although technology has made
communication easier ,it is sometimes a deterrent to the actual conversation and
interpersonal discussions and relationships. The communication relationship has
affected our social life since devices were developed, our communication with other
individuals has been distinct because our devices are so powerful from a
psychological point of view that they change not only of what we do but who we are,
how we interact and where we want to go. It influences our mindset, dictates
our preferences and may change our values. In order for us to find ourselves, to
have rapport and intellectual intercommunication, we need meaningful
communication in our place of work or school and most especially with family and
friends. Communication is constantly evolving, and we are used to seeing the
internet avatar of our friends as if it is their real face already. There is a higher risk of
sharing information with others you hardly know than to hangout with friends and
make memories.

REACTION PAPER BY:

Janelle S. Sobremesana

BSN 1-Rogers A