Technological Advances Come with Risk

Technological advances are being made to improve computers with the incentive of a goal to make life easier, more manageable and even more rewarding. This subject raises a large controversial topic that results in quite a generational debate. Do people rely too much on computers and technology for their way of life? While it is true that these advances and the use of technology make life easier, organized and more convenient, however there is a negative aspect. Cell phones are just one example of a relatively new technology within the last twenty years. On the other hand, the lack of cell phones in years previous is being made up for by the necessity to have one now. Cell phones are regarded as being so significant in fact; it is hard to imagine most every American doesn’t own one. The cell phone of today offers more than just the mobile ability to place a call from basically any where. Actually, the phones on the market currently, seem to have endless capabilities. Between PDAs, Palm Pilots, Blackberrys, and other smart and android phones, it is hard for one to imagine life before their invention. These new advanced phones are more than just a phone; they are mobile offices, readily accessible internet and email, day planners, GPS systems, instant text messages and instantaneous access to the world via the unlimited downloadable applications. The most appealing notion for consumers is the ability of it being all at your fingertips. Believe it or not there is a down side to the life changing mobile device. In his article, A Call to Safety, David Heller states, “the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations estimates that about 812,000 of all drivers on the road at any given time are using hand-held cell phones. This equates to roughly 11% of vehicles being driven” (54). The use of cell phones, texting and GPS systems while driving is putting thousands of lives at risk on a daily basis by distracting drivers from the total focus on driving on...