English 101/102 Student Example

Jim Roth

The Pitfalls of Technology

      Modern technology is a luxury people all over the world come across daily. Then again, is it really a luxury? From computers to cell phones, technology is everywhere around us and so is the chaos that comes along with it. In her article “Technology’s Dark Side,” author Catelyn Hughes warns us that “the disorientation that technology can bring can be insidious and pervasive” (412). Added to this, the time and money spent on computers, cell phones and cars will likely grow every year, amplifying our frustration. It’s becoming more and more critical that we would do well to awaken to technology’s hidden effects and realize that even though technology promises great conveniences, the inconveniences can often outweigh the advantages.

      While computers are beneficial, they have many drawbacks. The unreliability of computers causes many problems for teachers, students and businesses. For example, my mathematics class requires a program to be downloaded onto my computer to participate in the online class. After multiple tries, tests and failures trying to download the program onto my computer, I have resorted to commuting to the college daily to complete my work on computers already equipped with the software. Castillo writes that “computer crashes are very common and erase vast amounts of important information that can sometimes never be recovered.” Most importantly, computers and the internet can be a great danger to users, especially children. Predators and identity thieves are prowling the internet looking for innocent children and gullible consumers. Computers may make our lives easier, but at times they are more trouble than they are worth.

      Cell phones are useful in case of an emergency, but are they worth the hidden charges, unreliable service and annoyance in public places? According to Hughes, “phone companies present great deals that sound too good to be true and they usually are; as you will find out when you receive your first bill” (413). Castillo agrees, reminding us that “roaming, overage and equipment charges are just a few surprises that you will continue to receive throughout your cell phone usage.” Unreliable service is a huge inconvenience when you need to use your phone. Important calls are missed, and families aren’t able to connect when needed. Additionally, the persistent rings of cell phones are an annoyance and disturbance in public settings. Many businesses and public facilities display signs asking for cell phones to be turned off.  Cell phones can cause more frustration and confusion than convenience.

      Cars are a troublesome technological necessity for almost everyone. They have great benefits but cause considerable stress as well. The cost of cars and their maintenance rises constantly. Cars encounter many technical problems that require a mechanic. The complications of engines with computers and technically difficult repairs confuse car owners and “often cause them to pay more money than needed” (Castillo). Gas prices are a huge burden and fluctuate daily, not to mention the horrible gas mileage huge SUV cars have. In addition, the act of buying a car “is an extremely stressful and puzzling experience for buyers with no knowledge of cars (Hughes 413). Car dealers tend to take advantage of the uninformed and sometimes desperate buyers. Cars require a great amount of time, money and knowledge to maintain and own.

      Every year new gadgets are presented to the public and are perceived as essential. Millions of dollars and hours of time are spent buying, using and maintaining these computers, cell phones, cars and the variations of them. Modern technology is in every store, home and office. Hughes warns us that “the inconveniences and headaches caused by technology are growing and are causing us as a society to become more and more detached from each other” (414). They assault the environment with noise, carbon monoxide fumes, and allow sexual predators and thieves into our living rooms. Advertisers would like us to buy into the assumption that if we do not have the most expensive and latest model of computer, cell phone or car we will not be successful.  Perhaps just the opposite is true.  

Works Cited

Castillo, Don. "Technology Monsters." Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. Virtual Press Associates, 03 May 2018, <http://galenet.galegroup.com/servlet/OVRC>.

Hughes, Catelyn. “Technology’s Dark Side.” What Matters in America. Ed. Gary Goshgarian, 3rd ed. Boston: Pearson, 2012. (pp. 412-416).