Communication overload

Lately, every time I open my computer it appears that somebody has invented a new technology to communicate over the Internet. Simple texts and 140 word messages are clogging the cyberspace as everybody compete to inform everybody else what they are doing, when they may do something, what they are eating and a host of other irrelevant information. Technologists have been working overtime to allow people to communicate constantly. One has to ask if such communications are useful and if it has any impact on present and future productivity. If the information content and the utility from them are low, these communication technologies will result in the loss of valuable time with no benefit. They will drain productivity and the next generation may end up texting their way to oblivion. Humans are given a powerful organ – the brain – that utilizes 20% of the energy. If technologies and irrelevant communication devices take us away from using our brains, it may be problematic for the future. Do we really need to know what XYZ is doing right now, if she is drinking her coffee or if she has landed in the LA airport. Don’t we already have enough devices and protocols to send and collect such useless information? Before one sets out to invent yet another way to broadcast information, please consider its deleterious effects on society.