A Response to "Children of the Screen"

In this modern age of technological advances, electronic devices have become a regular part of our everyday lives. If an individual were to think about all the screens he interacted with daily, the facts would be surprising, to say the least. Indeed the improved technology of today’s computers and other appliances has helped to make work more convenient and less time consuming, to a degree. However, there is proof beyond a doubt that these screens we use everyday have become a substantially large part of the daily schedule. We all, to a point, have adapted to this sort of lifestyle. I fully agree with Hannah Baylon’s idea that “…in many ways, the media is our environment.”

One detrimental effect of modern technology is an increased workload, which leads to a rise in stress levels. Wait a minute; was not the point of improved technology to help save us time in our days? As computers become quicker and more capable of different functions, people in most professional work settings are automatically expected to accomplish more and finish challenging tasks in a more productive manner, with less human interface in the event of a problem or “system glitch.” This modern society is accurately termed the “age of anxiety,” as more people feel the increasing pressure to out-perform others in the work force, while improving their social lives. These goals alone do not necessarily lead to a happier, more fulfilling life. As Baylon states, “Many painstakingly climb the corporate ladder, believing the key to happiness lies at its height. Much like the proverbial pot of gold at the rainbow’s end, it is often discovered that there is no such reality.” People, as a whole, have thrown aside the idea of human interaction and simple delights in life to strive toward becoming wealthier, successful, and more respected by their peers and coworkers. We are not looking at the bigger picture of existence, and are instead focusing on getting through the “daily grind” without thoroughly losing our heads.

The sky-rocketing stress level of the average working American is likely the main cause of people spending leisurely time in front of a flashing television screen or video game. Modern individuals generally want the easy, thoughtless entertainment found in front of a screen. They return to their homes, tired and stressed out from a long day at work, and are too exhausted to spend their remaining mental energy on reading a novel or spending actual quality time with family and friends. Sometimes certain people allow themselves to become excessively inundated, almost obsessed, with media outlets; they allow their lives to be controlled by screens, thus “escaping reality.” Some people depend on this escape to ease their troubles. One unfortunate result of a lifestyle governed by media stimulation is the missed opportunity to discover one’s true gifts and talents, with which he may be able to benefit others, or perhaps even the world. Therefore, in consideration of all these facts, we must ask ourselves, “Does the constant endeavor for perfection have more of a detrimental effect on our lives than the positive result we are striving toward?”

Lastly, the image Baylon displays at the end of her social commentary is a precise visual representation of an individual who is imprisoned by electronic screens. While some may find the image disturbing, I think it is an accurate way for Baylon to express, “Is this the kind of person you want to become? Do you want your life to end up looking like this?” This child-like person in the image has an expression of pain, anger, and an overall dissatisfaction with life. The tape over his mouth shows how his gifts and talents have been silenced and squelched by his consuming reliance upon screens and visual stimulus to fulfill his life. This eloquent, forthright article by Ms. Baylon stands as a warning to all of us as to what our lives could melt down to if we lose our sense of true purpose in life.