Project Three: Technology Assignment ——ZHANG QI

 Technology Transfer:

A Day Without Modern Technology

ZHANGQI

2021064666

On June 1, 2024, I decided to undertake a unique experiment: to spend a day completely without the technology of the 20th and 21st centuries. This experience not only made me deeply aware of the impact of modern technology on our lives but also led me to reflect on our level of dependence on it. Below is a detailed account and analysis of my day.

 

Methodology

To accurately document my experience, I chose a notebook and a pen as my recording tools. Periodically, I would jot down my activities, feelings, and discoveries. This traditional method of recording helped me focus more on the present experience and gave me a profound sense of what a day without electronic devices is like.According to Erving Goffman's theory of "self-presentation," I deliberately avoided using modern technology in my activities to experience the "front stage" and "backstage" behaviors in different contexts. By documenting my activities, I could more authentically reflect on my actions and feelings without technological support.

 

Description

Technologies I Avoided:Computers and the Internet: Without these, I couldn't look up information, engage in online learning, or entertain myself, which greatly impacted my daily activities and information access.Smartphones: Without a phone, I couldn't make calls, send messages, use social media, or check maps, making it impossible to communicate instantly or get real-time information.

 

Technologies I Couldn't Avoid:

Infrastructure: Electricity and water systems are fundamental to modern life. Even during a day without modern technology, these remained indispensable.Traditional Books and Paper I relied on traditional books for reading and information, using paper to record my observations and feelings.

 

Analysis

In the 19th century, people relied on newspapers, letters, and face-to-face interactions for information and communication, which required more time and effort.Entertainment: Without modern technology, my entertainment options became very limited. I chose reading, writing, and playing with my cat to pass the time—activities that were a part of daily life in the 19th century.Convenience of Life: Modern technology has greatly enhanced our life convenience. Without modern kitchen appliances and household gadgets, many daily tasks became more time-consuming and cumbersome.

 

Can We Live Without Modern Technology?

Adaptation and Adjustment: Although initially uncomfortable without a phone and computer, I gradually adapted by reading, writing, and playing with my cat. This made me realize that humans have a strong ability to adapt and can find other ways to meet life’s needs without modern technology.Change in Quality of Life: Life without modern technology made me more focused on the present experience, reducing distractions and diversions. 

 

Impact of Technology on Our Lives:Efficiency and Convenience: Modern technology greatly enhances our life’s efficiency and convenience. From information access to communication, from daily activities to entertainment, technology influences our lifestyle in every aspect.Dependency: Our dependency on modern technology is increasing. Without it, we feel uncomfortable and inconvenienced. This experience made me realize that we need to balance the use of technology and traditional ways of living to avoid over-reliance on technology.

 

A Detailed Day

I got up in the morning and, following my usual habit, made a cup of coffee. Without a phone or computer, I decided to spend this time reading. I picked up a novel I hadn't had time to read and sat on the balcony named 活着（To Live）, enjoying the morning light and the story. This peaceful time made me appreciate the undisturbed reading experience.At lunchtime, I didn't use any electronic devices to look up recipes and instead prepared my favorite simple dishes. After lunch, feeling a bit bored as I usually used my phone or computer to pass the time, I decided to organize my bookshelf and wardrobe. These activities brought a sense of satisfaction that I hadn't felt in a while, even though they are often neglected.In the afternoon, I played with my cat. Normally, I would take pictures of it with my phone, but this day I realized I couldn't use any electronic devices. After taking a few photos, I immediately remembered the day's restrictions and stopped using my phone, focusing instead on interacting with my cat. This made me enjoy the time with my cat more, and we played many interactive games and even tried some new toys.In the evening, I decided to go for a walk outside. Without phone navigation or music, I relied on memory to find my way home and listened to the sounds of nature during the walk. This made me more aware of my surroundings and my thoughts. Back home, I felt a bit bored as there were no TVs or other entertainment devices to use. I could only flip through some books, trying to relax.At night, I tried to pass the time by reading, but soon felt sleepy. Without a phone or computer for further entertainment, I could only force myself to go to bed early. This day’s experience made me realize that life without modern technology, although peaceful, lacked many conveniences and entertainment options. Despite the discomfort, I completed the challenge.

 

Conclusion

Through this day’s experience, I discovered that while modern technology brings great convenience, it also makes us overly dependent on it. Goffman's "self-presentation" theory was fully reflected in this day’s life: without electronic devices, my "front stage" behaviors decreased, revealing more of my true self. This experience made me realize the necessity of balancing modern technology and traditional ways of living. We need to enjoy the convenience of technology while maintaining respect and adaptability for traditional lifestyles.

 

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