The Power of Disconnecting

Topic:

In today’s world we are constantly tied to our screens: checking our email, the number of likes on our latest Instagram post, or the recent viral cat video. But how is this impacting our happiness? Leaders around the world and within Silicon Valley are extolling the virtues of disconnecting in an even more connected world.

Readings:

1. Why Our Screens Make us Less Happy: Link to Ted Talk

2. Addicted to Your Phone? You’re Not Alone: Link to Article

3. Technology, Happiness On Demand and the Absurd Human Condition: Link to Article

4. Time Well Spent App Ratings: Link to Article

5. What Technology Can’t Change About Happiness: Link to Article

Discussion Questions:

1. Is it technology that is really making us unhappy? With every new technological era (industrial revolution etc.) there is a concern that technology is hurting humanity. Is this just another wave that will pass?

2. What do you think about the idea of a Hippocratic oath for software design? Are companies ethically responsible for how technology impacts us?

3. How do you feel about your relationship to your technology? Is it difficult to disconnect? Does technology/social media make you happy?

4. How does technology impact happiness at work, at home, in parenting, etc.?

5. What do you do to disconnect? How do you feel when you set your phone aside for an extended period of time?