WP1 :: Statement of Purpose

Technology changes the way we view the world. If anything can be gained from watching the video above, it is that we are living in an age where the way we live, and even think, is greatly influenced by the latest technological advances. As the video states, "We are living in exponential times." Nothing could be closer than the truth. The population of the world is estimated to be around 6.79 billion people, and is moving closer to 7 billion at an alarming rate. Most of the population increase is occurring in less developed countries, such as those in Africa and Asia. Because of this rapid population increase, a number of other related problems have presented themselves.

The global population is not the only thing that has been changing so dramatically. Technological advancements have also been proliferating, both in richness of design and the volume of production. Since technology is changing so quickly, there is a race to produce the fastest, lightest gadget with the most practical and flashy features. Whatever happens to the outmoded piece of equipment that became obsolete in a matter of months?

This is a question that I would like my audience, which could include anyone who has ever purchased a technological device, to consider this question. There is no doubt that technology is changing at a fast pace. Having the newest MP3 player or the most cutting-edge cell phone is required to maintain a certain social status. Keeping up with the newest internet trend is almost necessary. It is easy to get caught up in the whirls, beeps, and flashes of new technology--after all, we live in a society that is driven by consumerism and capitalism. Within the last few decades, this obsession with the new and now has gone to a level (or stooped to a new low).

Ninety-nine percent of households contain at least one television, with the average American household having an average of 2.24 television sets. It would seem that one is never enough. This mindset is not limited to televisions. The number of computers per household on average is similarly rising. We now have a clearer context as to the sheer volume of technological devices that have become an integral part of our lives, a part we often take for granted. I ask again, "Whatever happened to the outmoded desktop computer that became obsolete soon after you purchased it?"

Those in less developed countries could help answer this question. This photo captures the outcomes of our consumeristic culture. The photographer is making a complex argument, raising awareness of the misdistribution of resources (specifically technology in this situation), as well as the environmental implications of the e-waste trade. The picture is a glimpse into a common scene in places like Accra, Ghana, where this picture was taken. In this computer age, we must all be accountable for the impacts our actions have, on both a local and international scale. Resisting the urge to purchase the newest iPhone on release day could be the start of being more globally responsible citizens.