Technology, For Better or Worse

Throughout the 21st century, technology has continued to grow and evolve. At the beginning of the century, the only common form of computer was the desktop computer. But here we are fourteen years later and there are all kinds of different computers such as smartphones, laptops and tablets. As technology continues to progress, more and more devices will be thrust upon us for better or worse.

In my lifetime, the improvements to computers and technology have benefited me greatly. I hear all kinds of stories from the older generations of having to write papers and only being able to use encyclopedias from the library. In the world we live in now, I still use encyclopedias to write papers, but they are available for me with the click of a button. I am also able to skip through the process of having to flip through the book, by just searching my topic in any of the well known web browsers. Not only do I have access to encyclopedias and books online, but I also have access to millions of articles and web info. My life has been made drastically better when it comes to school work, because of the internet.

With the other improvements to devices such as cell phones and now even tablets, I have the ability to access the internet from anywhere. Smartphones are especially great and almost a must need for those that are capable of affording them. Since wifi isn't necessary to use a smartphone, you can use a smartphone anywhere that you have signal, which in today's society is almost anywhere near some sort of civilization. Anything of importance can be accessed such as weather, news, email or just simply getting in touch with a family member or friend.

Which brings us to the problems that technology has caused in the world. With the growing use of smartphones and just cell phones in general, has come the issue of those that don't know when is the correct time to operate such devices. In the world we live in, almost all teenagers have a cell phone and use the texting option of communication. Texting is a great way to communicate with one another, but there is a time and place for everything, and driving is definitely not one of them. And it's not just teenagers getting caught texting while driving but some adults too. Texting and driving has taken many lives and has become a major issue in our society. Cops are starting to crack down and tickets can be given to those caught texting and driving, but it's still not enough and many more lives will be affected by texting and driving.

Technology and the internet seems to be a great gift to the world. I know it makes my life a lot easier and better. The only downside to technology is when us humans find a way to use it irresponsibly.