Time for something new! From a conversation I’m having on OKCupid:
You say that you’re stepping back from technology a bit? Why’s that?
As far as my use of technology goes, I’ve obviously not cut myself off from it completely (since I’m using it now). I’m just trying to be more deliberate about how I consume media in general. With the traditional broadcast model of corporate networks feeding the masses a constant flow of information, its too easy to just accept the messages we’re given without thought. Just like what’s happening with our crops and environment, I see this feed of information is leading to a monoculture. It’d be alright if it was a culture of open-minded acceptance, peace and prosperity, a dash of intelligent science, and all those ideals (let’s push down reruns of Star Trek 😛 ), but the monoculture that’s being created is one of mindless consumption, xenophobia, and constant fear. This culture only benefits those on top. The sad thing is that most folks don’t understand what’s happening to them or why they can’t better themselves.
I’m a fan of Netflix, Hulu (where I now watch almost ALL of my television), and some of the independent subscription stuff popping up on YouTube. These are a different model of media consumption where consumers can choose their programming, can rate the program, and even sometimes INTERACT directly with the producer (ever watched “The Guild”? The producer of that show reads ALL of the comments they receive). Its a two-way communication where the folks consuming get a say in what the message is.
My “Media in Society” professor should be proud!
My other issue with technology is that our use is not sustainable. Until we have harnessed the sun and wind on much larger scales, we are simply demanding too much of the infrastructure we have. And there’s too much turnover in hardware. How often do people trade up their cell phones (Part of that is a problem with media, but I think that makes my point anyway)? Technology helps us create some of the most useful tools we’ve ever had, but we need to be way more deliberate about how we use these.
Deliberate, active choices… that’s kind of my motto now.
I envision this awesome future where the population has spread out to little villages of no more than 60 diverse, variously trained people. They share a small, sustainable power and utility infrastructure; communicate and trade globally through the Internet; and have all electric robot aids and transportation. I think that’s the implied ending to the movie “Wall-E”.
