In contrast to my adversary, who makes great points on the uses and ease of computers, I feel that computer dependency is growing to the point of becoming unhealthy.

Social networking is great for career development and instant communication is beneficial in a fast-paced society, but neither is a replacement for interpersonal communication. People are naturally social and need human contact to stay sane.

Social interactions have an inherent quality; technology dilutes the experience. A couple can’t truly experience a first date over Skype, and ending a relationship via text message or, worse, by e-mail is horrible.

Outward social skills are necessary for all types of interactions and without them relationships suffer. Friends constantly checking thier crackberries never listen and alienate themselves. People who become over-connected to technology become disconnected from the people in thier lives.

Computers and the Internet are tools for accomplishing tasks and utilizing time wisely, but it is just as easy to waste time. Facebook, Twitter, Reddit, Pinterest, Netflix and League of Legends are just a few examples of the Internet’s infinite number of distractions. It takes a determined and well-disciplined person to use these tools for only short periods of time. It’s so easy to be sucked into the glamour of the Internet that its convenience is counterproductive.

Using technology in excess can also potentially result in physical health problems. A person can get carpal tunnel, dry or strained eyes, back aches, insomnia, and gain weight due to internet addiction, according to helpguide.org.

Using technology is a necessary practice in our ever-changing world, but we have to remember to communicate on a personal level with the people in our lives. After all, you can’t send a text message to that dime you just met without first asking for his or her phone number.