Check Out A New Cool Post from Pocketnet: Don't Blame Technology, Blame Yourself. Yes and No!
A great thought provoking article. Basically, the author argues that addictions created by the modern tech are only the fault of those who use that technology and fall under their spell. A great libertarian argument and and a lot to like in it, but...
What the article doesn't express enough is how much of this addiction is imposed at a young age. All cultures protected children from behaviors that rob them of important experiences. And that is where I disagree with the author. Silicon Valley overlords are purposely getting their tech to kids at an early age. All the while their own kids typically go to schools where gadgets are expressly forbidden. They learn to write, draw, think and contemplate.
I agree that adults have the right to make their own choice, even if that choice is to waste their life away in virtual reality. Social networking should be about exchanging important ideas and finding like-minded people (not same minded ), not just an endless distraction.