How the Computer Changed American Culture Trying to imagine today's world without computers, I imagine our lifestyles would be extremely different . “As exciting as technological developments may be… it is important to remember that people who do not have the skills or machines to exploit this information find themselves in the same situation as a century ago, those who did not know how to read or did not have access to books” (240). “These new technologies have undoubtedly changed our perception of what it means to be literate” (239). A few years ago, being educated simply meant knowing how to read and write. Today, one must complete years of formal schooling to be considered a scholar. Indeed, “our sources of information have become much more diverse than they were a generation ago” (239). At the turn of the century, knowing how to read and write was a skill that only the wealthy could acquire. Those who cannot read or write are generally poor and helpless. As education became available to almost all of America, education beyond high school was the key to wealth and power. Today, information and the skills needed to access it are no longer linked to success. This is partly due to the computer, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. In the future, those without IT skills will be left behind, helpless. I still remember the excitement I felt the first time I put my hands on a keyboard. As Neil Postman says: “What is peculiar about these computer interpositions is that their role in directing what we will see or know is so rarely noticed” (247). Throughout this article I will examine the advancement of inventions, work ethic, jobs, and how the computer...... middle of paper. "Finally, just as computers shape our world, our own dreams and desires influence technological change. Where will our dreams and desires direct the technology of the future?" (241). Ultimately, we must be able to “read the world” (239). Computers will continue to impact our lifestyles. People began to enjoy more leisure and less strenuous work thanks to computer technology. Perhaps in the future this luxury will be extended to the poor and issues of human rights and equality will be improved. As people become more connected, they will hopefully become more aware. Another change that will likely occur is relaxation at home and at work. The line between the two is already disappearing. People can now shop without leaving their homes. It would be quite strange if we became more of a global village, without ever leaving our homes..