Generation Gap

A recent study from the Pew Research Center suggests the gap in personal beliefs between young and old Americans is widening. Since the last presidential election, we seem to be heading in different directions when it comes to a number of domestic issues. A lot of people are talking about how younger people are embracing the technological boom while older people are shying away from it or just haven't caught on.

As a spokesperson for the 20-something demographic, I can see how the emergence of new technology can be startling to more traditional types. I recall attempting to explain text messaging or how to use some computer applications to an older relative this past year. Text messaging took awhile, but she's starting to get the hang of it. With the computer, she just writes word documents and sends emails, but she has no interest in learning anything beyond that. I see in some adults doubts about a genuine need for things like blogs, twitter feeds, even cell phones. Of course, as a student of journalism, I'm fascinated to learn how social networking across the web is evolving. I want older Americans to be more aware of, if not genuinely interested in exploring, the web's potential.

All this thought about the gap raises a number of questions:

Is the new wave of cell phones and iPods and twitterers and bloggers just too crazy for the older generations to wrap their heads around? Will today's older citizens eventually breakthrough the theoretical technology barrier? When we get old, will we be as techonologically-saavy as the kids coming up after us? Will my generation's collective understanding of computers keep up with future waves of electronic advancement.

The essential illustration of the one generation's struggle with technology comes from comedian Frank Caliendo. For his TBS show, "Frank TV," he portrayed Andy Rooney of "60 Minutes" fame reviewing the iPhone. Hilarity ensues.....YouTube - FrankTV and the iPhone