The evolution of movies, television, Internet, books and magazines (and media companies) during the last century has revolutionized the culture. Now, more than ever, anything goes in these mediums. People in our world have exposure to a dizzying array of YouTube videos, pornography, political discourse, advertising, and human interest stories.
In fact, it's safe to say that the shift from the basic newspapers of the early 20th century, to the media overload of the post-millennial age, is a giant shift in human consciousness that has altered the way the world functions.
Modern Evolution Is About Immediacy
• The immediacy of information and connection is the biggest different between modern day and the beginning of the century. In the past, information traveled more slowly; for example, doing business was far different during the old days, before cell phones and subways and all of that. People mostly stayed in their communities, because traveling was hard work. They would occasionally go to other towns to stock up on things that were needed.
• Now, anyone can buy anything from almost anywhere, and everyone can connect globally with anyone else who has an Internet connection and email address. The pace of information has gone from super slow to lightning fast, and things will never go back to the way they used to be. Those who long for the good old days watch the magical elements of new technology and shake their heads. People who shun technology are known as Luddites, and they would rather live back in 1900, when the world seems to turn more slowly, and life was lived according to the rising and falling of the sun.
Balancing the onslaught of information from media sources with old fashioned pleasures is the best way to enjoy life in the modern age. Unplugging now and then and looking for ways to enjoy a low-tech, low-fi hour or two can be very healthy, and provide perspective.
In fact, it's safe to say that the shift from the basic newspapers of the early 20th century, to the media overload of the post-millennial age, is a giant shift in human consciousness that has altered the way the world functions.
Modern Evolution Is About Immediacy
• The immediacy of information and connection is the biggest different between modern day and the beginning of the century. In the past, information traveled more slowly; for example, doing business was far different during the old days, before cell phones and subways and all of that. People mostly stayed in their communities, because traveling was hard work. They would occasionally go to other towns to stock up on things that were needed.
• Now, anyone can buy anything from almost anywhere, and everyone can connect globally with anyone else who has an Internet connection and email address. The pace of information has gone from super slow to lightning fast, and things will never go back to the way they used to be. Those who long for the good old days watch the magical elements of new technology and shake their heads. People who shun technology are known as Luddites, and they would rather live back in 1900, when the world seems to turn more slowly, and life was lived according to the rising and falling of the sun.
Balancing the onslaught of information from media sources with old fashioned pleasures is the best way to enjoy life in the modern age. Unplugging now and then and looking for ways to enjoy a low-tech, low-fi hour or two can be very healthy, and provide perspective.