Richtel includes the quote “technology is rewiring our brains” to emphasize both the positive and negative effects technology has on our always adapting brains. He provides evidence from various studies to show these effects. Imaging studies shows that internet users are more efficient at finding information and are constantly growing their neural circuitry. Those studies also showed that players of video games have better visual acuity and reactions. However, Richtel also includes a study done by Mr. Ophir that revealed multitasking can have a negative effect on the brain. In Mr. Ophir’s multitasking study he found that multitaskers cannot filter out irrelevant information and have trouble focusing on a single task.
The Campbells represent the average modern family. They are included in the article as an example of the strain technology can put on a family’s connectedness. Mr. Campbell’s life is consumed by technology and while that may be rewiring his brain, it is rewiring his family as well. His struggles with email-overload and forgetfulness are extremely relatable and common, and give the audience something to reflect on and attempt to prevent from happening in their own lives. Richtel also uses the Campbell family to emphasize how much of an impact parents have on their children. Connor Campbell bonds with his dad over technology but has also begun to show signs of dependence and almost addiction to it. It sends the message that if parents are not careful their children’s use of technology will become counterproductive.
“The myth of multitasking” refers to the common belief that multitasking is a productive way to accomplish things in the most efficient and timely manner. Richtel includes Mr. Ophir’s study to show that multitaskers actually take longer to accomplish tasks due to their inability to ignore useless information. I have always thought that multitasking produced quantity rather than quality and this study confirmed that for me. Multitaskers are so focused on all of the new information and new tasks that they barely pay attention to the previous ones. I have personally never been a good multitasker and I prefer to take my time on each assignment or task individually.
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