The Computer Revolution

by Kera McHugh

In spite of any misgivings you may have about the software companies in the news these days, big or small, you must admit, in some way, at least one of them has made your job a little easier… right?

I'll state now, if you answered "no", then you must live in a cave in the Andes or something.

Even if you don't personally use a computer to carry out your daily tasks at work - or at home - your life has been made easier, faster, more accurate and yes, in some ways probably more frustrating, but overall better, by the computer revolution.

We can access more information, more knowledge, more answers in considerably less time than ever before. Ok, I know, except when the computer is down… which in my opinion is an excuse which is WAY overused by most large companies whose customer service department isn't known for it's action. But that's another story… You can do your banking, pay your bills, track your stocks, check your child's homework list, research the National Library (http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/index-e.html) or visit the Metropolitan Museum (http://www.metmuseum.org) all through your computer, all within minutes, all without leaving your desk. And if you don't have a computer, you can do a lot of that over the telephone - again thanks to computers.

One of the most remarkable and wonderful things about the computer revolution, and in particular the internet, is the ability for people around the world to communicate with each other - instantly. And practically free! Look at the wonderful support that sprang out of nowhere for the victims of Sept 11's horrifying tragedy… countless websites where people could contact their families, learn how they could help, keep up to date with the news, donate money - all appeared within hours, and were being spread by email and phone across the globe. (here's one: http://wtc.toto.com/) We are able to connect with loved ones and strangers alike to support and strengthen each other through our common need for compassion and justice. I know for certain that the 500+ women in one email group I belong to were grateful to have a community to express their fear, anger, sadness, intolerance and compassion in that was safe, and immediate.

Yes, I know, there are plenty of bad things about computers and the internet, but you will never convince me that we were better off before them. The good far outweighs the bad, the forward is much stronger than the backward, and the benefits considerably outnumber the hindrances.

So, three cheers for computers! Aw, c'mon… you can do it! Hip Hip… I'm waiting… ok ok, 2 cheers?

Compute in peace.