As we see technology changing the very face of society there can be no doubt that some of the changes are about as welcome as an outbreak of diphtheria. There is a tremendous backlash to the increasing popularity of texting. Much of the backlash comes from those who are concerned about the effect texting is having on the written word, while others are concerned about the social aspect of texting, feeling it and other of the newer communications tools (instant messaging, social networking, blogging) are somehow diminished forms of communication.
Let’s deal with these two concerns; first up, how can the structure and beauty of our written word survive in the shorthand, contracted world of SMS?
When we send text messages, grammar, spelling and composition go out the window in favour of brevity. We shorten everything possible: “see you later” becomes “C U l8r”. I can hear the question being asked now: this is a good thing?
Language evolves as do our communications skills. If you master texting you can communicate complex thoughts and ideas in a minimum number of words. It does not replace any of the communications tools that came before, it only augments them. No one is expecting books or magazines to be written in texting shorthand, just as we never migrated from the full alphabet to written shorthand! It is a new layer of communication - a very effective one - and it is well worth mastering.
Language need not suffer. I pose this question: has the written word suffered because of computer keyboards? No, it has not. I could not write this column were I forced to write it out longhand. I have embraced and become dependent on a piece of technology, but my command of language has not suffered for technology.
What about the social impact of texting; are people who text less social, or is that contact somehow diminished because it is through a tiny screen and keyboard instead of face-to-face in all our visceral glory?
Of course it is not; we communicate using the tools we have available - everything from gesture, to eye contact, to spoken and written word, to texting and instant messaging – they all form a continuous stream of communication that are appropriate for the moment in which they are engaged. For anyone to suggest texting does not carry the same emotional or social weight as any other form of communication demonstrates simple naivety or ignorance.
Here is a huge parenting tip for those with teenaged children who have cell phones. Kids seem to never answer the phone when their folks call, and the lament “you have a cell phone but you never answer when I call” is heard from many a frustrated parent. Instead of phoning, text your kid; I almost 100% guarantee you will get a text back, so you can find out where they are or when to expect them home for dinner. Why? Texting is non-invasive; it’s handled in private – just you and the screen, so your friends don't know you’re talking with the “old man” - so kids are more comfortable communicating.
Texting is not better or worse than any other form of communication, but ignoring these evolving tools will leave you at risk of being left behind as society moves on!