Technology creates divides, unifies generations
The older generation is arguably one of the most influential and valuable assets of our time. However, there are undeniable differences in the ways of life from the generation of our elders to our own generation. Differences in technology create differences in perceptions of social and working standards between old and young.
Technology is evident in nearly every aspect of our lives today, but remains less common for older generations. Quite often, an older person’s view of technology is different than our own, for varying reasons. In the past, the use of technology was considered frivolous. People worked with their hands, and most everything was done with hard labor. In the modern age, technology is a necessity and is used in most everything young people do. Homework and grades are posted online, and many jobs require workers to know how to use computers and iPads. The world is changing and becoming more technology than labor based. However, this causes the generation gap to widen (and differences become more obvious). Older generations still tend to look at cell phone usage as excessive while younger people see it as a way to stay connected.
Social conditions outside of technology have changed drastically as well. Amidst hippy movements, shifting fashion trends and the progressiveness of modern times, the differences in the generations are more prominent than ever. The world has evolved rapidly over the past few centuries and taken humanity along with it in a whirlwind of events: peace, war, diplomacy, happiness and sadness. However, not everyone evolved quite so rapidly. Sophomore Zoya Boskovic understands the divide between the generations and reconciles with both.
“Technology today is extremely innovative and helpful and advancing business and education,” said Boskovic. “But, there is a point when technology begins to interfere too much on social interactions with one another.” Often, the older generation is seen as out of touch with today’s youth and for good reason. Life was much different in the past as opposed to today regarding one’s social and personal conduct and appearance. Older people view today’s apparel that younger boys and girls wear to be scandals. Conversations between teenagers are a lot more open-minded and less judgemental than they were 50 years ago. Nearly everything has changed, all the way down to the way people speak. New phrases come and go each day with newer generations.
These differences, while forming an obvious divide in the old and young, have also created something to be proud of. They show the advancements people have made through technology, creativity and openness through the years. Despite the amount of differences between generations of people, we all face the same timeless human trials of life and look not only to one another but also to the past for guidance and support. Let mankind not forget the moments of camaraderie that we have had with its elders. Looking past the discomfort of having to teach a grandparent or two how to work Twitter, continuing to make positive progression through each generation and being able to discuss with older ones about how far society has come is as rewarding as anything.
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