It's true that most of what the upcoming generation knows relates to technology. It also might seem like older generations are well-versed in a "plethora of knowledge." However, I think there are many variables to consider when comparing the two generations in such a way.
First, you can't say that younger generations don't know as much as older generations simply because the younger generation is so reliant on technology. Older generations have historically married younger, encountered HUGE societal changes (civil rights, women's liberation, countless wars, AIDS epidemic, etc.) during their formative years, and were NOT as connected to the "outside" world as much as we are today. I think that when you consider the fact that people were marrying, having children, and beginning their career at age 18-21 -- it makes it seem like they were "more mature" sooner than this generation is. Which they probably were, but I don't think it has anything to do with technology. Because the pressure is not on children today, to marry young and begin a family so young, they don't have to "grow up" so fast.
The older generation might seem like they have a "plethora" of knowledge, but doesn't anyone who has lived a full life? They have lived through things, experienced things, loved, lost, learned. At 18, you're just beginning to do all of that. If anything, technology has given us access to develop our own foundation of knowledge. At the click of a button, we can learn how to change a tire, sew, renovate a bathroom, learn a new dance, learn about the mysteries of the universe or the newest species discovered at the bottom of the ocean, find out what is happening around the world without having to hear about it on the 5 o'clock news, learn how to help a colicky baby, or find out how to train a dog.
There's nothing to be jealous about. Each generation has it's issues (this one maybe just a disconnect from face-to-face interactions), but not being as smart or as well-versed in things, I simply don't agree with.
I completely agree with you Danielle! There is no doubt in the fact that the older the generation, the more wiser they can be with experiences they have had time to be a part of. Younger people simply haven't had just as much time to go through the same type of experiences as the older generation. However, we can learn things a good bit quicker with access to technology. I don't believe it puts the younger age at a disadvantage but rather just expresses and widens the learning and trade process. Technology can definitely be productive, if used correctly.
ReplyDeleteWell said. All generations do have their own set of problems, yet each generation has its own advantages as well―technology seems to bring both for all generations.
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