Glass Half Full of Technology Today, technology is simply everywhere. These days, individuals seem to experience withdrawals if they forget their cell phone at home, almost as if it were a lifeline. The average young American, ages 8 to 18, spends more than 7.5 hours a day using a smartphone, computer, television and/or other electronic devices, according to a new study by the Kaiser Family Foundation. . There is no doubt that this statistic has increased over the years. In the 21st century, we are quick to judge the negative effects of the Internet and technology on us, but should we? Or is it time to realize that technology is now the way of life? In the article “Is Google Making Us Stupid,” Nicholas Carr explains how the Internet affects our thought process in what I would call looking at the glass half empty. Although Carr makes a very good argument, I believe there are many ways to see the glass half full when it comes to technology. The Internet has played an important role in the way we learn today. Decades ago, students used libraries to gather information. These days, libraries are a thing of the past. Now, students can use websites such as Google, Bing, Yahoo, and Duck Duck Go. Carr explains why he moved from library books to using computers: For over a decade now, I've spent a lot of time online, searching and surfing and sometimes adding to the Internet's excellent databases. The web has been a boon to me as a writer. Searches that once took days in archives or library periodical rooms can now be done in minutes. A few Google searches, a few quick clicks on the hyperlinks, and I have the telling fact or pithy quote... middle of paper ...... there are many ways to look at half the glass full in matter of technology. When we use the Internet, we open the door to endless information and opportunities. Whether it's reviewing multiple resources with different perspectives effectively, learning in the way that suits you best, or using connected apps to communicate with family and friends, using a powerful tool called the Internet should be considered a privilege. We control how technology affects us. Use these tools to your advantage. As Carr said, “Maybe I’m just a worrier.” Just as we tend to glorify technological progress, we tend to expect the worst from every new tool or machine (7). This is our company. We created what technology is today. Either you join the tech community or you fall behind the present and the future.