I confuse people because I sometimes embrace new technology (e.g., cryptocurrency) and sometimes cling to old tech (e.g., vinyl records). The explanation is simple: I search for what works. I don't automatically adopt a new way of doing things just because a company wants to sell it to me. I check to see if the product will actually improve my life. Conversely, I don't discard proven machinery just because it's gotten old. My cynosure is always: what works best?
Two examples: I just migrated from paper-books to Kindle. And I returned to a 90-year old way of making coffee (Bialetti Moka Pot).
When e-readers emerged I didn't grasp their benefits. I like paper and its absence of electricity. I always carry a book and magazines with me, read during gaps in my day and didn't want to worry about cords and electricity. The situation changed however with my recent vision-loss. Now paper isn't bright enough and sentences exceed the width of my field of vision. On a Kindle you can adjust both of these. I find reading on a Kindle easier. I've started consuming books much faster with the clever device. That's improvement.
Do you have a Kindle/Nook? Do you like it?
When I was a child my parents drank Sanka, awful-tasting freeze-dried "instant coffee". Sanka became popular among the bourgeoisie due to massive television advertising. In college I met my first love, a bohemian artist with great taste. She introduced to real coffee. The Bialetti Moka Pot was invented in 1930 by an Italian connoisseur and has been popular ever since. It effloresces a cup of Joe that's richer than other methods (e.g., French press; drip; Keurig). I just bought one of these wonderful machines almost a century after its invention. It works beautifully.
What's your approach to new technology?
I think I've got a similar approach to new technology ...
ReplyDeleteSo far, I haven't been using a Kindle, but I can see why this is such a big improvement for you. But nothing beats coffee made the old-fashioned way! xxx
We're kindred spirits, Ann!
DeleteI think like you think. I like my Kindle. I actually have two and the app for my phone. I prefer the paper-white options as it feels more like reading paper books (less eye strain) but one of my two has the back light so it can be lit if I need it. Modern Technology can definitely help in ways older tech can't. Downside, kindles need electricity though the paper-white do have very long lasting batteries and I've had mine a decade+.
ReplyDeleteMeanwhile I still cook on my great grandmother's cast iron pans. They cook better and last longer than any Teflon pan, though I suppose those have their uses too.
I'm still not a fan of everything becoming cordless/wireless. Everything bluetooth. It's nice for moving around but now your ear phones run on batteries and have to be charged. Mouses, keyboards, phones, even cars now, need to be recharged with batteries. A lot of it is framed as eco friendly but I have my doubts about the long term sustainability. I am both old and young enough to remember phones would work when the power was out because landlines phones weren't running on electricity.
Exactly. Being your age you can contrast the past with the present. And all your points make sense.
DeleteThere's a debate to do away with AM radio in cars. The government's reluctant to allow that because, since its beginning, AM radio was there to notify the public in emergencies. Not all "progress" is good.
I'm a bit like you in the sense of I'll use something if it improves my life or makes something easier though it's very, very rare I will but new tech.
ReplyDeleteI have a second hand Kindle my friend M gave me (only used for long distance holidays) when she upgraded hers.
One piece of tech that I've recently got is a wireless voice amplifier and microphone headset as I'm constantly losing my voice at school and this will mean I don't have to constantly project it over the sound of 30 recorders. It already helped so much in the two days I've used it.
We use an old-fashioned caffetiere at home (well C does) rather than the fancy single pod Nespresso machines some people have here!
Glad your Kindle has been such an asset! Kx
Thanks for sharing your stories, Kezz. The voice amplifier sounds good for you.
DeleteI've had a Kindle for years and love it, especially for vacations. I can load it up and not have heavy books taking up valuable space in my suitcase.
ReplyDeleteI don't drink coffee but my husband still prefers the French press and I don't think it's because he's French. He is an espresso man at heart.
I believe in embracing most technology. My Mom refuses to accept technology and it really limits her life. Much better to adapt and remain current with the changing times. Often times it can improve or simplify your life.
Suzanne
Yes, generally. Thanks for your thoughts, pal.
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