Apple’s release of the iPhone 7 with its unique wireless headphones has brought the issue of Bluetooth to the forefront. With the elimination of the headphone jack, and Apple’s commitment to a wireless future, consumers must ask the question, “Is Bluetooth safe?” What is Bluetooth? Bluetooth uses similar radio frequency technology as cell phones, but…
Technopoly and the Loving Resistance Fighter
As one who has given up her smartphone, eliminated Wi-Fi in the home, and opted out of a smart meter, I’ve wondered how to characterize my concern with technology. Now I know: I’m a loving resistance fighter. In his 1992 book Technopoly: The Surrender of Culture to Technology, Neil Postman defines Technopoly as “progress without limits,…
What You Need to Know About 5G Technology
Amidst political conventions and global and domestic violent attacks, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) slipped something by the public in July 2016 that warrants our attention. FCC chairman Tom Wheeler formally announced the approval of the Spectrum Frontiers Proceeding on July 14, 2016, giving the FCC authority to allocate (rent) 5G (fifth generation) bandwidth. Unlike 4G technology,…
Wi-Fi in Schools
Does Wi-Fi belong in school? What are the health risks of Wi-Fi in schools? What can concerned parents do? Wireless technology permeates society. It’s in our coffee shops, offices, homes, and schools. But does Wi-Fi come with a cost? Experts around the world say it does. More than 20 countries have taken a precautionary approach…
What Parents Need to Know About Virtual Violence
In the wake of increasing acts of violence, the Amercian Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a new policy statement on “virtual violence.” Citing a child’s unrelenting exposure to media violence, the AAP policy statement calls for action on the part of parents, pediatricians, and legislators. What is virtual violence? According to the AAP policy…
Screen-free Activities for Kids and Teens
Do you find yourself on a device more hours than you’d like? Are you concerned about the length of time your kids spend with screens? Are you looking for some counter-cultural encouragement when it comes to technology and parenting? Screen-Free Parenting As a mom whose children span from age 15 to 31, I have seen…
