Technology, particularly the internet, has been blamed for various negative consequences such as destroying businesses and the middle class. However, Michael Harris argues that technology is neither good nor evil, but simply a part of our lives. In his book, “The End of Absence,” Harris focuses on how technology affects those born before 1985, who have experienced life both with and without the internet. He highlights the importance of being able to understand and translate the changes brought about by technology. Harris also discusses the reduction of human interactions to numbers and the impact on self-worth. While he acknowledges his own concerns about his behavior, he does not advocate for less internet usage. Instead, he emphasizes the need for self-reflection and occasional breaks from the online world to gain perspective.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology affecting society | From limited communication to constant connectivity | Increased reliance on technology for communication and entertainment | Advancements in technology and societal dependence |
| Reduction of interactions to numbers | Quantification of human worth | Loss of ability to decide self-worth | Desire for validation and recognition in online spaces |
| Anxiety about being offline | Dependency on technology | Increased reliance on technology for daily tasks | Fear of missing out and desire for constant connection |
| Taking breaks from the internet | Recognizing the negative effects of constant connectivity | Increased awareness of the need for balance between online and offline life | Desire for self-reflection and personal growth |
| Luxury of taking a break from technology | Difficulty in taking extended breaks from technology | Limited opportunities for extended breaks from technology due to work obligations | Work obligations and societal expectations |
| Richer interior light from occasional breaks | Enhanced self-awareness and reflection | Improved ability to critically evaluate one’s online presence | Desire for personal growth and self-improvement |