Brittany Stallworth

May 24, 2016

Homework #1: Computers are good for people

Prior to the early 19th century there were no computers, and the computers that did exist
werent sophisticated enough to support the average persons needs. An absurd statement when
spoken today, considering that most daily operational procedures include the use of a one.
Society once maintained accountability through tally sticks, counting rods, and counting houses.
When this extraordinary device was thought of, it wasnt taken into considered that it would be
used to surf the internet, social media, or just daily entertainment and research. During that day
in age, a computer was a mechanical aid to the calculation and measurement of astronomical
positioning and navigational use. Seeing as this system was centuries ahead of its time, the
computer was very effective. It took its first real stance in government organizations (military)
and it was a hit. Though it was capable of computing complex data, it wasnt capable of
computing all data. That ability didnt come about until 1936, when Alan Turing proposed
programming. With a device that was now capable of preforming multiple everyday task,
home computers entered the market in late 1970s to mid-1980s. And no more than 10years later
the World Wide Web made its debut. (Wikipedia, n.d.)Now the question is being posed, are
computers good for people? The entrepreneur in me screams, hands down yes; but the mother in
me could definitely build a strong case against them.
As an entrepreneur and Business major the invention of a computer and its multiple
applications was heaven sent. Running a business is no easy job and with utilizing computers, for
various tasks, youre able to guaranty a better quality of efficiency, origination, and overall
operations. This devices offers upcoming business owners the ability to reach a broad variety of
people from the convenience of their establishment. It is said that 51% of US consumers time is

spent using mobile media. (Chaffey, n.d.) With a mass majority of the US population surfing the
web on the go, it would be a strategical lost not to include your business in the pot of pickings.
The use of the computer not only offers your business advertising operating but it can also be
used as a marketing scheme. As time progresses the ability to obtain service via the computer
will become the new normal. Your proficiency in marketing your brand, product or service on the
computer will result in profit. 46% of online users count on social media when making a
purchase decision. (Chaffey, n.d.) With the right social media and promotional habits your
business is made accessible to almost half of online users. The computer also assist in basic daily
function, stretching from human resource needs, logistic formats, and accounting programs to
simple document creation and to do lists.
But, as a mother, I am at the complete opposite end of the scale. When raising children
one is forced to be very conscious of what information their child receives and the sources in
which they receive it. Though computers possess the capability to influence children
academically, it also holds the ability to hinder childrens social interaction and development
skills. This has been evident in the interaction children have with parents and persons of
authority. An obvious effect that has been noted is the reversal of the traditional parent- child
role. With computer savvy children, more often than not, you find them teaching the parent.
Studies have shown that teenagers are more likely to help their parents with computers, than the
parents are to help the teenager (Gross, n.d.). These machines are also enabling our childrens
want to build relationships with their peers, consequently their interpersonal skills are effected.
More than one-fifth of all children between the ages 8 and 18 report having a computer in their
bedroom (Gross, n.d.). One would conclude that due to the convenience of this device it is
possible that over usage could occur, negatively impacting a childs ability to maintain in

person friendships. Computers offer virtual reality to very influential and delicate minds. The
distinction between role playing and reality can become a blur. Researchers found that college
students who were immersed in the simulated games were more likely to have aggressive
thoughts than those who merely observed the game (Gross, n.d.).
So Im torn between the two. Though computers can offer simplification in the business
world, they can cause complication and, at times, compromise growth in your personal world.
One would have to choose for themselves the boundaries to place on such a powerful device.
When navigating through a computer you need to remain conscious. Question what you read and
see, and source information in reliable locations. Take in consideration all bias possibilities and
build what you will consider your truth.