Blog #13- Smart mobs

In Howard Reingold's introduction of "How to Recognize the Future When it Lands On You", he reminisces not only upon his first encounters with today's impressive extent of technology, but also with the repercussions, both positive and negative which accompany these hi-tech advancements. Reingold discusses the sudden influx of impersonal communication as well as the commercialization and public availability of previously monumental technology. What before was untouchable to the common citizen is now accessible to nearly everyone. Reingold takes both an admiration-filled and wary approach to the ever-increasing use of technology within our media and culture. I strongly agree with both approaches. Without media and today's advancements, my life would be vastly different. However, I too have anxiety over the speed with which technology increases. I dislike the fact that nearly everyone has access to other's personal information; Total privacy is rarely attainable. Reingold's awe, too, for media reflects my feelings towards technology. Even while reading his work, I received two text messages, an occurrence which would have seemed largely foreign to me only a few years ago. On a daily basis I receive numerous texts, I-m's and emails. Although this has not always been the case, I cannot imagine life without my blackberry. Another change in media which has directly affected me is the increased availability of internet access. My old phone was very simple and lacked most of the newest features of today's wireless providers. With the purchase of a blackberry last summer, a whole new world of opportunity awaited me. I now had instant access to anything I wished to know. In summary, Reingold's awe at technology's rapid morphology relates strongly to my appreciation and nervousness at media's increased influence. What only a few years ago seemed greatly advanced is now shabby in comparison to the constant stream of information and contact which defines my present existence.