Implementation

For all those who have read Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman and The Shallows by Nicholas Carr have certainly been exposed to the myriad effects the internet and television has had on our physical brains, our attention,  our need for entertainment, and changes in our daily routine.

Postman points out that much – if not all – the things we do are focused around entertainment. Even some previous blogs have pointed out that they enjoy reading, but only if the book is interesting or entertaining. We hardly look to spiritually or intellectually challenge ourselves, but merely read books to entertain ourselves. Think about how many fiction books compared to non-fiction books you have read.

Carr points out that the internet is having physical effects on our brain and nerve synapses. How we think has changed from past generations. How our attention span has decreased; with us not being able to read a short online article without skimming through it in the “F” pattern. How distractions – specifically electronic – have created huge influence on our focus and endurance.

It would be so easy to read through those books and commend the authors, saying “they are so right.” Blog about it, comment on it, finish your essay prompts, then close the book and return it to the library and never think about them again. Who would want to think about past summer homework that we don’t have to do again? It is extremely easy to put down the book and never reflect on it again. What would be the point of the book? You get a good grade? Get accepted into AP English? Sure taking challenging classes in high school where you learn much, get a weighted GPA, and receiving college credit is nice, but what are we going to do after reading those books? How are you going to implement what we have learned into your daily lives or routine? As for myself, I am attempting to make a conscientious effort flee from distractions while reading or studying, to attempt to not skim through articles, but read them deeply, reflecting, even rereading text if I do not comprehend it the first time. What are you going to do? Even Carr in his last digression admits he is slipping back into his old ways. Are you even going to make a conscientious effort to change your habits? How are you going to implement what you have read Postman and Carr's books to change your routine?