[cjmewett]

[ QUOTE ]
Today we are tuned to everything that everyone does, when our parents grew up TV was just a form of entertainment, a tool to escape from the real world until the news came on. Today it isn't only an escape but a dive back into the real world and we sit like zombies in front of it hoping to not miss any of it.

[/ QUOTE ]This was a really good post overall, and this point in particular is excellent.

Before the internet and the constant and overwhelming avalanche of information, people were a lot more satisfied with simply relaxing, I think. Phones seem to be a good way of looking at this. Used to be that if you weren't around when someone called, you weren't around. Then we got answering machines, you know, just in case you were missing something. Then cell phones, because why miss anything if you don't have to? And now you can constantly check your email, look at people's myspace, and chat on AIM, all from your handheld device.

So I think there's something to be said for the idea that we're conditioned to constantly be open to soaking up more info, and going to sleep seems like giving up... after all, maybe you'll miss something.