Abigail Leichman "Tuned in, Zoned out"

Are we shunning ourselves out from the world with the help from technology? Many argue that once you’re “tuned in” your MP3 players you become less approachable and more antisocial. You isolate yourself into your own little universe and are oblivious to your surroundings. Not only is this rude and disrespectful, it’s also alienates us from our peers. Human interaction is a vital part to living a healthy social life. Abigail Leichman affirms that “studies show that these mini-conversations—with the same women at the coffee shop each morning or the guy who owns the petrol station—are important to our psychological wellbeing.” These casual mini conversations are stress relievers and keep us in touch with the people in our lives. Technology has become a huge part in our everyday lives and has brought convenience and ease into them; therefore, we have become extremely dependant on it. However, “it can be a blessing and a curse” (Leichman). IPods can cause lasting damage in your social life.

I can relate to the people who claim that sometimes the alone, undisturbed time is necessary and that the isolation from the outside world is intentional. Leichman asserts that “wearing headphones has become the modern equivalent of wearing a ‘DO NOT DISTURB’ sign around one’s neck.” This is good when it is used in moderation. I understand how sometimes you would rather keep to yourself instead of socializing with your seat partner on a plane. Alone personal time is also essential in living a healthy life. Achieving a balance between these two is the key to a healthy social life.