Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Diving Deeper: "Open Sky"

In continuing reading Paul Virilio's Open Sky, I have discovered more on his view on technology and the way it is shaping our world in more ways than you would think. The second portion of the book discusses many facets of technology but starts out with the idea of the way technology and new research would effect our bodies. In discussing "animates", or microscopic pieces of machinery that could be used to navigate the body and aid in disease recovery, he touches on the reduction in size of technology. The world, with all of its most recent advances, is taking a step back from other revolutions of size and space and is now focused on making all devices small and compact, increasing not only function but also efficiency.

Related to the downsize of technology, Virilio discusses our desire to "miniaturize the world", therefore creating an arena of life that knows no space or time because it is subject to internet, technology, and speedy communication. With this same idea, he questions whether a move to make all technology compact and instant actually improves us as humans or changes the very theories and concepts we live by. Advances like "animates" or other devices that can go inside the human body and improve them, or even make then better than they were biologically, begs the question of if we are trying too hard to blend technology with biology, as Virilio states.

With all of these ideas, he also discusses the ways in which our "life-size" world is in danger. If technology is not only advancing humans but also advancing travel and the idea of communication, then the real world that we live in no longer functions as it did. Virilio speaks to the gap that media creates in people making connections with each other that I often notice in my daily life. To me, it is sad to no longer receive hand written letters or enjoy a lengthy in person conversation. To me, it is impersonal to only receive text messages and emails as my main form of contact. While these methods are efficient and effective, I also wonder if we are in danger of losing ourselves to gain a world of technology that can supplement human contact.

Virilio goes on to discuss ideas of online dating, the small television screen making life speed up, and the future of super highways in France. While all the topics touched on are quite interesting and pose great questions, I can't help but think that the main concept to be taking away from his reading is how much technology will change us if we are willing to let it. By highlighting the ways it can effect us mentally, emotionally, physically, and psychologically, Virilio warns of the dangers that may accompany technology.

What dangers to you see technology creating in your life? Do you support the ways in which technology is changing and "improving" us? Why or why not?

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