As a general Information Age question, is the convenience of email, texting, etc an improvement or has something been lost in the absence of hand written letters and phone calls?
I would have to give a slight edge to something has been lost. I believe email and texting has allowed the rapid exchange of information (i.e., how rapidly information was sent to the outside world during the revolutions in Egypt, etc.). But...I think detail, emotion, and explanation has been lost with email and texting. Too short to discuss anything at length. I can't imagine explaining anything substantial in a Twitter format, 140 characters or less? Not happening.
I try to remember that for me the electronic and handwritten communications serve different purposes. Exchanging data and information is very efficient with electronic means.
I still handwrite for special and sentimental occasions and make my children do the same (including letters just to keep in touch). It's funny the only people who send me e-cards are my 80 year old parents and other relatives!
I would have to give a slight edge to something has been lost. I believe email and texting has allowed the rapid exchange of information (i.e., how rapidly information was sent to the outside world during the revolutions in Egypt, etc.). But...I think detail, emotion, and explanation has been lost with email and texting. Too short to discuss anything at length. I can't imagine explaining anything substantial in a Twitter format, 140 characters or less? Not happening.
ReplyDeleteWhole heartedly agree... An anniversary, birthday card, etc revisited 20 years down the road being held in your hand is difficult to substitute.
ReplyDeleteI try to remember that for me the electronic and handwritten communications serve different purposes. Exchanging data and information is very efficient with electronic means.
ReplyDeleteI still handwrite for special and sentimental occasions and make my children do the same (including letters just to keep in touch). It's funny the only people who send me e-cards are my 80 year old parents and other relatives!