“Reclaiming Conversation” is a very thought-provoking reading, putting to context several issues related to communication technology. In many ways, technology has made us more connected to the world around us – we can easily talk to anyone anytime anywhere. Then, why is there the problem – “flight from conversation?” Aren’t exchanges on text considered conversation as well? The author makes a significant effort to define the word conversation, only allowing it in the context of real-life interactions. As technology has become more prominent, it has displaced conversations in real-life, causing people to be less emphatic, less creative, less fulfilled, and ironically less connected.

Within the frame of “flight from conversation,” the author introduces several new issues brought up by the influence of communication technology. Whether it is the “silent phone” effect, the power of the “tiny god”, or the myriad of other issues, I will use this space to address two main problems – 1. Our fear of the “First Chair”, and 2. The Goldilocks effect.

Thoreau’s “Three Chairs” gives a unique take on human interaction and the kinds of proper conversation that has been omitted by technology. Perhaps the most fundamental one is the “First Chair” – Solitude. Nowadays, being alone is often seen as a problem that needs to be fixed through technology. Personally, I felt the full effect of this during my 8-hour digital detox, fearing the thought of no one to connect to. We, as humans, are failing to sit down and reflect on our self, leading to the constant search of fulfillment through digital means. For example, can you really say you enjoyed an event if it is not broadcasted on social media and approved by your followers? Perhaps the rise of meditation might be a solution to our lack of solitude.

The next issue is elaborated through the “Goldilocks effect” – the idea that we are moving away from conversation to mere connection. If you think about it, when is the last time you approached someone through a phone-call or physical contact? The trend towards texting has transformed the nature our daily interactions. This effect is further epitomized through the short story – “Machine Stop” by E.M. Foster. As much as it is fictional, it gives a very realistic prediction to what our world has become. Written in 1909, it gives a strangely accurate description of how we are starting to fear human contact and real-life interactions.

            Rather than inventing new technologies to solve these existing problems, it might be better to look within ourselves to find the solutions.