Obviously, I'm not a neo-Luddite but I do see the value in being "unplugged" and "mindful" use of technology. This evening I heard Dr. Alexander Berzin speak on "Applying Buddhist Principles to the Information Age." He spoke about how the application of Buddhist principles like discrimination can help us use technology skillfully. This summer I read a a great book, Wisdom 2.0, and adapted a lot of it in a lesson for my students on mindful use of technology. The author reminds us that we are the real power source and it's important for us to know "what's being connected." 

Dr. Berzin did outline many of the drawbacks of technology and in the extreme cases of addition to games and the stimulation technology can provide. We also discussed how our attentions spans seem to be getting shorter and someone brought up 2008 article, Is Google Making Us Stupid. 

Technology is a beautiful gift when it is used "mindfully." When my phone rings I use the ring as a mindfulness bell and go back to my breath and  remind myself about the power of my words before picking up the phone. I've also been able to find so many things to support my practice on the internet--from spiritual talks, to out of print books and translations of suttas. Most importantly, the internet allows me to stay connected with my loved ones while also creating and deepening connections with kalyana mitras.