Most scientists claim that technology is killing our imagination. In fact, if today you go to a restaurant you will see kids straight up glued to a tablet or smartphone, rather than playing with their toys. And the truth is playing in our early childhood is what builds up our imagination skills. But what if technology has benefits as well?
It is said that technology eliminates any moment of boredom we might have. Waiting in line for a coffee? Why won’t you grab your smartphone? And that has in fact happened to all of us. Because of this constant entertainment tool we keep in our pockets, scientists say we are losing the time to think, time to just stop and reflect on our day or the things we still have to accomplish.
In addition, it is defended that technology makes everything seem effortless and fast, causing people to become more impatient when having to wait for something. Since we have machines to do almost everything, laziness is also taking over.
But the other side of the coin is that technology is helping people evolving in the areas of imagination and creativity. Apps like Pinterest are a great source of content to inspire and motivate creativity. Many say that when the Information age ends, the next phase will most likely be one based in imagination and creativity, since innovation is the key factor of the 21st century.
Videogames are a very controversial subject to talk about. But regarding this discussion, it is said that sandbox games (the ones where you can change almost everything with very few limitations) are, in reality, developing the kids and teens imaginative and innovative skills.
So maybe, there are some advantages on the use of technology but like everything else it has both the good and the bad aspects. And, since we can never please everyone, we will always have people on both sides of this discussion. But the truth is we must accept the evolution and try to keep up with everything developing around us, in the safest way possible and in order to create the best future generations we can.
Sources:
Mind & Technology 