Details for the Question
Old fashioned proofreading (hard copy with pen) replaced with various on-line spell and grammar tools and devices.
Old fashioned long hand arithmetic replaced with calculators and other technology devices.
I’m sure there are more of these types of examples where manual functions have been replaced so that the mind doesn’t have to work as hard.
Do you think as a result the mind does not get the exercise or conditioning it would otherwise get from these types of manual functions? Is the mind as razor sharp today?
Before answering try to old fashioned proofing or long hand mathematics and see if your mind can still do it as if it is second nature.
Background
I posed this as a Linked In question. While there were only 17 responses, I was overwhelmed by the thoroughness, the complexity and the insightfulness of the answers. They raised many points and were very thought provoking. Provoking thought and learning is my goal with posting Linked In questions. This question was a great success. (For Linked In members, the entire collection of great answers can be found in the Closed Answers section under the Answers tab.)
Summary of Responses
Eleven responded no, that our minds are not less sharp, while 5 responded yes they are less sharp. One respondent was on the fence saying no and yes.
Those responding no indicated that while we are losing some of the aforementioned skills, the mind stays alert with new challenges and acquired skills. The respondents answering yes, believe that the lack of some of these old fashioned skills and others are evidence of some deterioration. One respondent referred to it as the “dumbing down.”
Besides my examples of proof reading and mathematic skills, other examples of skills that we are losing, as pointed out by the responses, include:
(1) Ability to read maps, directions,etc., replaced by GPS.
(2) Ability to write a check replaced by check cards and on-line banking.
(3) The iPhone replacing old cell phones which replaced old land line corded phones (remember those?).
(4) ATM and MAC machines replacing in-person banking. (If you count your money when the ATM dispenses it does this mean you are old-fashioned?)
Some other examples in history, provided by respondents, when other skills were replaced by advances, include:
(1) The rubbing of two bones or sticks to start a fire replaced by the lighter and matches.
(2) “Snail” mail replaced by email, text messaging and instant messaging. (Though I still get a lot of snail mail.
(3) Plows pulled by horses, ox and the like replaced by tractors.
(4) Writing with quills replaced by the ball point pen replaced with computer keyboards and cell phones.
For those who felt we remain sharp, this above history for them reflects we lose some skills but we gain new ones. This is progress the respondents reasoned. Do we still want to be doing mathematics by counting our toes and fingers one asked?
Some expressed the view that they fear not losing touch with old fashioned skills, but rather fear losing touch with new ways, new skills and possibly with family, friends and colleagues. They are fearful of not keeping up with them. One respondent told of playing video games with his grandson and how much more skilled his grandson was.
For those concerned about the loss of skills, most believe there is a benefit to having such skills. Some mentioned these skills are the framework for other skills that we need or desire. Some questioned our education system and value system; and placed some on the doorstep of these systems.
One person gave an accounting of the ages of man and indicated that we are now in the information age. This respondent states that awareness is key to success and survival. That response is a good read.
Conclusion
All in all, I enjoyed this discussion. It was a good debate back and forth, with good points on both sides. If you can, I encourage you to read all this answers on Linked In. This short summary does not do justice to the exceptional discussion and responses.
