199. Is Tech Making Us- Bored, Lonely, Angry, Stupid?

This podcast episode explores the impact of technology on society throughout history, focusing on the themes of self-expression, vanity, anxieties, and awe. The conversation with the authors of the book "Bored, Lonely, Angry, Stupid" uncovers the dynamic relationship between technology and society, highlighting how technological change shapes society and its impact. The podcast delves into various historical examples, such as the impact of photography on self-expression, the role of 19th-century technologies in shaping attitudes towards pride and distraction, and the changing anxieties and perceptions of information and entertainment. The podcast also delves into the concept of awe and its relationship with technology and narcissism in modern life, as well as the potential for awe to contribute to a more harmonious society. Additionally, the podcast explores how the Internet has amplified anger and the challenges of understanding and describing ongoing technological transformations. Overall, the podcast raises thought-provoking questions about the power and influence of technology on society, emphasizing the importance of human agency in shaping our technological future.