TECHNOLOGICAL CHRONOLOGY

TECHNOLOGICAL CHRONOLOGY

By Juan David Córdoba G.

“We live in a society exquisitely dependent on science and technology, in which hardly anyone knows anything about science and technology.”  Carl Sagan

What are family Sundays? It would be a strange question for young people today. Having a pleasant dialogue, recreating old stories, updating your loved ones with the last events; these thing ceased to be traditional activities emerging at that sanctuary called "The living room". What are the reasons for this?  Maybe, there are too many reasons.  However, I guess it could be one in particular: the constant influence of technological development such as little devices known as gadgets take us to a new life in a digital world.

A few years ago, the most expensive device in a home was the TV, and having two of those was considered a luxury. Later, the reign was gotten by the computer, moving that "box", which was repeatedly called "magic" away. Both monarchies lasted for several years, but suddenly other small and developed devices (cellphones; now smartphones, mini components, Mp3 players, Mp4 players, and Dvds…) were getting our attention, up to the point of becoming one with ourselves. Nevertheless, in most cases what appears to be a strength, ends up being a camouflage to hide weaknesses, and that’s what happens with this type of devices: they make us believe in great benefits for a short period of time. In other words, they easily become obsolete articles. Our lives have been influenced by these advances in devices and services up to the point of no return.

With technology, everything isn’t as good as it seems. Technology moves us away from physical contact. In many cases, we abuse these channels and we leave aside personal interaction, arguing the ease and quickness of these gadgets. It is amazing how children learn how to use these devices from an early age. They adopt them as an extension of their bodies. They become their new best friends. Parents don’t have control over their use, supplying the absence created during the educational process with these devices. Finally, we must to remember: there is no replacement for a firm handshake, a warm smile, or a comforting hug. Like every other aspect of our lives, we have to maintain a positive balance.