Chapter 1: The Screen Dependency

“My child is bored” has seemingly transformed into a euphemism for “I want a gadget,” as evidenced by my 5-year-old's constant requests. Even a brief drive from school triggers the familiar refrain of “I’m bored.” In a bid to engage her, I offer various alternatives—reading a book, gazing out the window, tidying her room, or playing with toys—but none seem to rival the allure of a screen. Admittedly, I wasn't fond of my mother’s suggestions when I was her age either, but she didn’t have a smartphone or tablet as an option.

Photo by Fausto Sandoval on Unsplash

In public spaces, I find it hard to fault her. Instead of allowing their minds to wander, reading, or people-watching (a pastime I once enjoyed as a teenager), I see countless individuals glued to their devices. The metaverse appears to be solidifying its grip on society, and many of us are unsure how to function without it. My husband and I are not exempt from this trend, but is there a way to prevent the metaverse from overtaking our lives?

As we navigate this landscape, can we thoughtfully envision what our world should be when our data becomes a commodity, valued as highly as cash? It’s astonishing to consider that we willingly spend real money on virtual items.

I have great respect for technology and its remarkable capabilities, especially during the pandemic, which has enabled a global connection that previous generations could only dream of. Today's children can easily access music from all corners of the world and forge friendships across continents through social media and video games—connections that were previously unimaginable. Yet, their worlds, while vast, are often confined within the boundaries of a screen.

As Dr. Ian Malcolm stated, “Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.” (Jurassic Park, 1993).

Throughout society, I see individuals, both young and old, yearning for genuine connections. However, the digital realm can only satisfy part of that desire. The pandemic has illustrated that virtual interactions fall short, particularly when they devolve into endless scrolling through social media or falling into the comparison trap.

Photo by Shane Rounce on Unsplash

To foster meaningful relationships, we must seek in-person experiences where we can interpret tone and body language. Furthermore, some connections should be with nature, allowing us to hear the wind rustling through trees, listen to birds and insects, and breathe fresh air instead of the recycled indoor climate that remains a constant 72 degrees.

While technology has granted us many incredible opportunities, we face a pivotal choice. We can either blindly follow the path laid out by tech companies or consciously shape a future where the benefits of technology harmonize with the simplicity of “the good old days.” Striking a balance between screen time and real-world interactions is essential.

I am currently reassessing my own phone usage, as it is a significant contributor to my disconnection from reality. I strive to ensure that my devices remain beneficial rather than detrimental. Recognizing when my screen time shifts from a much-needed escape to a mind-numbing trap is crucial. Once I reach that numb stage, what was once enjoyable transforms into something that leaves me feeling worse.

Make no mistake, the metaverse is not just on the horizon; it's already here to an extent. However, we have the power to influence how we engage with it. We can shape it for positive outcomes, rather than simply catering to the profits of tech giants.

This is our opportunity to stand against the modern-day robber barons. We must be deliberate in how we engage with technology, ensuring we do not detach from reality. As we step into this “new normal,” integrating both the digital and physical realms is vital for cultivating the society we desire.

Chapter 2: The Impact of Screen Violence

The first video explores the idea that excessive screen exposure, particularly from a young age, can contribute to negative feelings and behaviors, emphasizing the need for moderation.

The second video delves into the concept of screen violence, discussing its effects on mental health and social interactions, prompting viewers to reconsider their screen habits.