Digital Revolution: The Greatest Inventions of Our Time

11/17/2015

When I think of all of the technology that we have available to us, and use almost every day, it reminds me of how quickly we have evolved as a species. I often times joke about my age , and speak of the old, antiquated devices that I used when I was your age. I had a Sony Walkman that played cassette tapes. Nowadays, you all have iPods or MP3 players of some sort. I had a one-way pager (and felt like I was crazy important), while most of you all now have cellphones - smartphones at that. I used snail mail… You all have email. We had a VCR in my family, and were one of the first families to have one. We used to rent our VHS tapes from Blockbuster Video. I'd bet many of you do not even know what a VHS tape is (much less a Beta Max), as most of you probably have BlueRay players and Netflix. I can remember vividly the day my dad brought home our very first VCR, our very first microwave, and our very first television that didn't have big knobs on it and actually transmitted in color. I can remember when I was excited to use our first remote control, even though it had a wire connecting it to our VCR, and only extended three feet beyond it.

That's it. Enough dating myself. While all of those inventions changed my life in major ways, I want to know what YOU all consider to be the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution. What invention do you feel is the greatest contribution to modern society and why? When was it invented? How has it changed life for Americans? How has it changed your life specifically? How has its technology spawned (or MAY potentially spawn) even newer technologies? Let me know your thoughts.

62 Comments

Daybue H.

11/17/2015 11:46:12 am

I think that the fingerprint scanner is the best/greatest invention of the Digital Revolution. It was first used by cops frequently in the year of 1892. It contributes to society in a number of ways, such as finding criminals, keeping accounts and safes private, and nobody can steal your identity unless they steal your print. The print scanner has changed many lives because back in the day people used to get their phones or safes hacked into with codes but now with a scanner you have to have the person finger to get into it. Also it has helped police in a number of ways, it helps them keep people’s files and know who they are and what they do. Personally it has changed my life in a major way, when my cousin George got killed, the cops immediately had an identification because of the fingerprints left at the scene and when they scanned them they found the murderers. That was good for me because it gave me a sense of justice knowing they are locked up in jail, and honestly fingerprint scanners have helped many people in the same way. This could spawn even newer technology because now they can create a system where everything detects fingerprints and we won’t need objects. For example if we have fingerprint pay stations, you can use your finger as your credit/debit card to pay for items and we will no longer need them. Fingerprint scanners have played a major role and that's why I believe it is the best invention of the Digital Revolution.

Paul E.

11/17/2015 11:51:58 am

I believe the laptop was the greatest contribution to modern society. I believe that because it is smaller than a computer and easier to maneuver that a computer. It can also range in different sizes and other accessories according to fit you. Rather than getting a computer that stays put and people of this generation don’t know how to maneuver as well. Originally made in 1981 by Adam Osborne, it has been useful to many people today. We now can go places and bring our “computer” with us, and when we go we can put it on our lap instead of finding a desk to put it on. My life has been easier with the laptop since it is easier to bring around with me. It is more recent, and can keep up with the servers being used on it. I have also experienced a lot of crashes with the computer since it is older, but it didn’t occur as much with the laptop. When it isn’t crashing it is a lot harder for me to maneuver since I haven’t been as exposed to it. It spawned newer technology because now some laptops are touch screen which at times can be easier than using a mouse or a pad. Some laptops also can be turned into tablets and back into the laptop with an attachable keyboard.

Paul E.

11/17/2015 11:58:21 am

I agree that the finger print scanner was very important. I even considered putting that as my idea. The point where you said that no one can steal your identity unless they have your finger print because that can help drastically reduce the amount of con-artist. I like how you said it gave you a sense of justice, because now it is harder for criminals to get away with this because of their finger prints. Now people can know that it would be at least a bit safer since people are going to jail more.

Tiffanie P

11/17/2015 08:34:28 pm

This sunday, at church, my priest was talking about our generation. He was saying how this is a generation that has everything and more. Although, I do agree when he says that it is ridiculous that some kids that are only 7 have iphone 6s’s and how most kids have all sorts of social media and don’t even know the dangers. They just have it because that is what’s “cool”. I don’t agree with the fact that he says it isn’t useful and that all we need is a way to contact with people long-distance and we will be ok, but it is useful. With the technology that we have now, we get smarter about how to program things and how to handle different situations. The way we can pull out phones or ipods and search things like,”How many tigers are left in the wild?” and the device would reply with saying that their are only 3,200 tigers remain in the wild, is amazing!

The greatest invention that we have now is the internet. It was made around the 1960s by Robert E. Kahn and Vint Cerf. I think that the internet is the greatest invention because before you would have to search up in a book and you wouldn’t be able to get you answers right away but now, you are able to look up something in about 2.2 seconds depending on the wifi connection you have.It has changed life for Americans because now we are more insightfull about the world and more aware about what is going on. It has changed my life because now my whole life revolves around the internet. For example, in school we need internet and wifi for almost everything we do, whether it be assignments or lessons. This could sprawl into either a good thing or a bad thing. Life can either just get more violent with all of the hacking's and weapons that are activated by something on the internet or it can sprawl into a good life with more education on how to improve our world using the internet and technology. These are some reasons why I think that the internet is the best invention.

Ronald W.

11/17/2015 11:49:55 am

I feel the invention of the smartphone specifically the iPhone is one of the greatest contributors during the digital revolution. The iPhone was invented on June 29th 2007. It started the phenomenon of social media. You wouldn't really have twitter or Instagram without the smartphone. Yes you can use a computer but being able to capture moments as they happen with a smartphone is more convenient. Also we can get the latest news on world events and updates live. With a Smartphone no matter where you are you can now be connected to the whole world. Smartphones have also been a big help to Americans. You can now reach out and call someone even if they are not home. Also if you get hurt you can now call out to help. It has also made it easier to check email and pay bills. The smartphone has changed my life personally because it is my main source of entertainment. Weather it's texting friends, going on Instagram or twitter, or watching YouTube it is a great source of enjoyment. I also use it to check on sports scores or even watch TV. As the smartphone has evolved it has become an all in one device. You have a compact computer sitting in your pocket waiting to impress you every single day.

The smartphone has and will continue to spawn new technologies. Smartphones have lead to greater and better smartphones, cameras and other things. They can also be an easy way to control things like video games and even robotic drones. Taking all of this into account it is hard to disagree that the smartphone has been one of if not the best contributor to the digital revolution.

Shadrach W.

11/17/2015 11:59:12 am

Ronald, well said! I think your response was very insightful, however like Wolfgang pointed out in class you might want to check your facts. And remember internet puts the smart in smart phone.

Grace J.

11/17/2015 11:50:14 am

I think that the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution and the invention that has had contributed the most to modern society is the Internet. The Internet gives us access to endless amounts of information right at our fingertips, and also helps us communicate with others easily. In today’s society, we owe much of the things we can do to the Internet. The Internet can help us with our homework by searching for information on Google, and helps us communicate with each other by sending emails. The Internet was invented in the late 1960s by a company called ARPANET, which allowed multiple computers to operate on a single network. However, it wasn’t until 1991 that the World Wide Web was made for home use. In the 24 years that is has, it has changed the life for Americans considerably. In the years that followed 1991, Americans could now access the Internet for free. Pictures were uploaded, information was published, and the Internet continued to improve. The Internet allowed for Americans to communicate with each other easily, access endless amounts of free information, as well as changing the way we live and the worldwide economy. Because of this invention, my life has changed too. I now can stream TV shows and series on my television and computer thanks to the Internet. I can communicate easily with my friends and family by email or text message, thanks to the Internet. Instead of lugging an encyclopedia around to do research for a project, I have all the information I need right in my own home. The Internet has also made so many of the inventions that we take for granted today possible. The cell phone and WiFi are just two example of these inventions. WiFi now allows us to connect to the Internet everywhere: in our homes, schools, and public places. The cell phone uses the Internet to text, make calls, access information, and connect to social media. So, all in all, I think the Internet is the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution. It allows us to have access to endless information, to communicate easily, and it has changed lives of Americans and myself.

Aliyah P.

11/17/2015 11:58:57 am

You make a good point because you can be able to access information easily at just the click of a button. I like when you say that instead of lugging around an encyclopedia, you have the information at home. Wifi is also a big part of the internet and you answered that point well at the end. Cell phones and the internet play hand in hand because you go on the internet with your smart phone. Well Done!

Law-Rel B

11/17/2015 11:51:09 am

In my opinion I think that the most creative invention of the Digital Revolution is Wifi. Wifi was created in 1991 by a corporation called NCR. I think that Wifi is the greatest contribution because it allows people to keep in contact with each other where ever there is a connection. For example if my phone was turned off but I still had a Wifi signal then I would be able to contact people through all different types of social media. Also iPhones are allowed to text and factime audio call people through iMessage and email. Without Wifi we would not be able to type on this computer as we speak. In modern society we depend on Wifi to do almost everything on our phones. The first questions that a lot of us ask when we enter a home is "What is the Wifi?". This is because without Wifi we would not be able to do the things that we teens are used to doing. Such as going on Instagram and checking Snapchat. Also adults would not be able to check their emails or Facebook their distant family members.
Wifi has changed the life of Americas because now we are able to do so much more. We are able to look stuff up and also talk to distant family members. Also schools are starting to incorporate computers and other pieces of technology into the education of children. So when kids go home they are able to finish their homework with Wifi from almost any devise that has the ability to go one the internet. For example as I am typing this in class, and i run out of time. I am able to finish working on this at home form my phone, computer, or tablet. It has changed my life because now I am able to share anything I want on the internet, and contact my friends who don't have phones. I could start posting countless selfies on the internet, and stalk my favorite celebrities.
I think Wifi has paved the way for a lot of different pieces of technology. Many people spend their time searching for ways to make something new. They spend countless hours searching for ways to make things better. For example without Wifi online shopping would not be possible and people who not be able to sell their own products. People would not have cell phones and other pieces of modern technology.
Again I think that Wifi has enhanced the life of us human beings. A lot of people do not think of Wifi as something important because we tend to take things for granted, but without Wifi we would not be able to do things that we would usually do. We would not be able to do the simplest things such as share a photo on Instagram or tell our grandma that we are doing fine and we received the package that she sent. If you think about it Wifi has changed our lives for the better and for the worst.

Daybue H.

11/17/2015 11:57:17 am

I agree with you that Wi-FI is very important. I remember when your phone was off and i needed to talk to you so i text you on Snapchat and we were able to communicate through Social Media. Without it many people would be distant from their family and friends. Another thing is that it gives us an advantage with being able to look up anything on the internet when we have a Wi-Fi signal.

Adrian F

11/17/2015 09:43:55 pm

I agree that Wi-Fi is one of the greatest if not, the greatest invention of the digital age. We rely on Wi-Fi a ton these days and without it we wouldn't have even done this assignment and we would also waste paper by doing this assignment on paper instead of with the Internet and using Wi-Fi, well said!

Shadrach W.

11/17/2015 11:52:20 am

I think that my classmates would agree with me when I say the greatest piece of technology was invented in the late 1960's, and the technology I'm talking about is the internet. The internet is, hands down, the most innovated and complex piece of technology the world has ever seen. I think this because some of the other great technologies wouldn't be so great if it wasn't for the internet. For example one great thing about a smartphone is that you can look up any question you want anywhere you are. And were do you look it, the internet. Another example is that, as long as I have my smart phone with me I can do any homework I have online. So you see, the internet puts the Smart in Smart phone. The internet has changed the life Americans everywhere. In fact some of America's most popular activities happen on the internet, blogging, gaming, and the most popular of them all social media. Social media has the biggest influence on the younger generation, and therefor drives america. And if you don't believe me go to a restaurant, I bet you there are more people on social media then there are people talking to each other. And that is all because of the internet. I think that the internet has effected me the same way it has effected the rest of the world. For example in a restaurant I'm the one checking Snap Chat or texting a friend. However I do try to stay away from being that person at the restaurant. I do so because I fear that the internet will cause the world to become antisocial. I believe that one day the internet will get so big that the only way we will communicate is through some form of texting. And those are my thoughts on the internet.

Anthony R

11/17/2015 01:49:31 pm

I agree with what you are saying, because I think that everyone here has made a project with the internet. This probably needed research,and for me,and most people the easiest way to find what you need is google. Though I agree that it shouldn't be used when you are doing something with friends and family, or with anyone because it will give bad impressions and make it look like you don't care.

Ronald W.

11/18/2015 12:52:33 pm

Well said Micah! One of the biggest forces in the digital age was the internet. I like all of the points you made.

Wolfgang C.

11/17/2015 11:52:52 am

I believe that the greatest inventions of our time are search engines. The first, Archie, used to archive, find, and download computer files. With the invention of the World Wide Web and the first website in 1991, search engines like Google that were made to find websites started becoming more common and popular. These search engines are great because they provide anyone with limitless amounts of information, entertainment, and communication. You can have any question answered, watch any movie or video, and talk to anyone because you found something that can do those. Websites are a great invention, but search engines can get you to websites you would have never found. Some search engines, like the aforementioned Google, have started to expand and provide you information, entertainment(YouTube), and communication(Google+) all in one. This system has completely changed my learning by allowing me to do more research in a shorter amount of time. It will revolutionize transportation as well when cars start to implement Google, allowing the car to go somewhere on it’s own because it searched the route and allowing you to use google while you ride the car.

Willa G.

11/17/2015 02:00:40 pm

You make a great point. It makes my think about how much I actually use Google and how much of an impact that has had on my life. I constantly find my information on the internet. A downside to that though, could be the amount of misinformation on the internet that people just assume is correct. Personally, I rarely check to see if a website has accurate information before just trusting it and search engines like Google don't organize websites according to accuracy. Some of the time the first thing that comes up is Yahoo Answers, a website where anyone can post whatever they think is correct without any validation. Besides that, search engines are a great and very important invention.

Aliyah P.

11/17/2015 11:53:31 am

I think that the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution is a smartphone. I think that it makes a great contribution to modern society because all of the information that you would want to know, is right at your fingertips. People have gotten the oppurtunity to sign up for jobs, do a high school or college application on a phone, and look up necessary information that will help you in your life.

The smartphone was invented in 1992 and it was called the IBM Simon. It has changed lives for Americans in many ways from being able to call, order things online, pay for things, and remind you to do something if you forget, etc. You can also do online banking which reduces the hassle. Lastly, you can even pay your bills online which saves you a stamp. It has changed my life specifically because it makes it easier to play games if I am bored, I can get reminded of things, and I am able to communicate with people.

The smartphone also paved the way for other inventions like tablets or other smart electronics. Now, some tablets are able to call people which is also really cool. Skype is also probably influenced from a smartphone because phones are able to call, but Skype might have used that idean also. Instead of your voice, you can use your image as a call.

Potentially, the smartphone could spawn newer technologies like a television that has a touchable screen, or maybe even a smartphone that uses holograms as an answered call. Instead of a voice you hear, you can actually see them and not only on a computer like you you would on a tablet or computer. With a hologram you can actually see their form.

Shalom K.

11/17/2015 01:59:45 pm

I agree with your stance on the importance of smartphones. Great point on how smartphones led to the creation of tablets and apps like Skype.

Raymond D.

11/17/2015 11:58:05 am

To be honest, I think the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution would be the TV. This invention has made a really big contribution to society. It gave entertainment and laughter to everyone and also informs us about information and current events through commercials or advertisements, and news. Some of the information we know about our society has came from watching TV. People watch the news and get a lot information about current events and then go out into our community and when someone brings up anything they heard on the news that person will know what they’re talking about. Television was made in the 1920s. It had changed the life of Americans by using the television as a great way to know information and that is why people today are smarter mentally and socially. Children nowadays have more social skills than older people because of television and that's why they have lots of friends and more confidence and self-esteem. Older people have more mental skills. They get some that knowledge from informal shows on TV and news and also from social skills in their own lives when they were growing up. It had changed my life specifically by allowing to act better in life. When people talk about current events that i know I've heard of on TV I can join in on the conversation. Also, some TV shows are nice way to make friends because you and another person might watch the same show and start talking about it and then you two are good friends. That is how I make most of my friends so it s a nice way to stay social. The television has spawned over all technologies because not any other piece of technology will give all the shows you want to watch and all the information you need so the TV is a nice place to get all that.

Mr. Husband

11/17/2015 03:13:07 pm

The smart tv, yes. But older models, like those from the 40's would not be considered digital. How does the smart tv benefit society now and how will it in the future?

Raymond D.

11/17/2015 05:02:46 pm

Oh, I never really thought of that. I agree with you Mr. Husband.

Makayla R.

11/17/2015 11:58:13 am

I believe that the internet has the greatest contribution to modern society. There are many reasons why I think that internet has a great contribution to modern society. One of the main reasons I feel this way is because the internet is a very helpful source to find information. Say you have a school project and the topic you are doing research on birds. The internet is a fast and easy way to find facts and information because with just typing in a couple of words you learn a whole about the topic you are researching.

The internet was first invented in 1958. The internet was the work of dozens of pioneering scientists, programmers, and engineers, who each developed new features and technologies that eventually merged into the very advanced internet we have today.

The internet has changed the lives of Americans in many ways. One of the ways that the internet has impacted to the lives of Americans is because the internet is an easy way of communication. Most people that live in America have family and/or friends that live in different parts of the world and need an easy way to talk to them. The internet is helpful in this situation because you can video chat or use different social media sources to text. This is how the internet has changed the lives of Americans, and for that matter people everywhere.

The internet has also changed my life personally because as I stated before it is an easy access for information and research. The internet has spawned even newer technologies such as apps. Apps are also a very reliable source to people because than they are made for different reasons and situations that can be very helpful. In conclusion, I think that the internet is a reliable source for information and has impacted the lives of many.

Hugo G.

11/17/2015 01:42:10 pm

I agree with this because I also think the internet has done the greatest contribution to society. I also agree with this because I think it was better than how I structured my comment and because it had way more detail than mine.

Raymond D.

11/17/2015 05:05:24 pm

I agree with you. The internet is a nice way to get school work or any kind of work done. It is also a nice way to get information.

Hugo

11/17/2015 01:34:37 pm

I think the invention that made the greatest contribution to society is the internet because it helped so many people around the world get connected in so many ways. It was invented in the late 1960’s when U.S.’ defense department discovered how to let multiple computers communicate on one single network. It has changed my life because it has enabled me to talk to my family in other countries and meet new people everyday. There have been many things that have spawned because of the internet like MySpace, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Tumblr, online games like W.O.W.(World of Warcraft), Blade and Soul and other stuff like that. The internet is still the cause of new things on it everyday. It makes it possible to communicate information across the world and that information helps create new websites and games. These are my thoughts on what I believe is the invention that made the greatest contribution to society.

Willa G.

11/17/2015 01:38:14 pm

I think that the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution was the cell phone. Yes, I agree that search engines, fingerprint scanners, computers, and TV are important, but I think that cell phones really jumped us forward in technological advances. Before cell phone (invented in 1973), you would have to wait until you got home to call someone or email/write them a letter. Email was invented only two years before hand so before that the only way to contact someone was with a telephone or letter. This made contacting people in emergencies much easier. You don't have to run to the nearest payphone to call 911, just take out you cell and dial. Also, now with contacts in cell phones, if someone was hurt, you may be able to call their family quickly and alert them. Cell phones also help stay in contact with people long distance without limiting social skills like texting might.You can call people you may have fallen out of touch with without writing a letter or email and waiting weeks for it to get read or wasting quarters on payphones. Just pick up your cell phone and call. Nowadays, most people carry their cell phone everywhere so its easy to keep in touch. That is why I believe that cell phones were the greatest invention or the Digital Revolution.

Willa G.

11/17/2015 01:47:38 pm

This has changed my life personally, even though I don't have a cell phone. Everyone else does. If it were a real emergency I know that getting in contact with my parents would be easy. Even without having a cell phone, I use my parents' cell phone every day. I call my sister's school on the way to pick her up in the car to tell her to get ready. I call my cousin in Florida to check up on her. The invention of the cell phone lead to the smart phone with apps and videos. The invention of the cell phone really opened up the door to a lot of new inventions.

Justin E

11/17/2015 01:50:44 pm

I totally agree with you! You can anybody at any giving situation at any time for help, which is a good thing. Just the fact that a cellphone can help you do a lot hings is great

Anthony

11/17/2015 01:40:22 pm

I believe that the apple devices were the greatest inventions of the digital revolution. This incorporation was founded April 1, 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wade. It has created almost all the greatest devices of this century, from the Ipod nano, to the Iphone 6s plus. It has revolutionized our lives, but also technology. When the Iphone came out in 2007 a total of 1 million dollars were made in 74 days, in 2014 the Iphone 6 sold 10 million dollars in the opening weekend. This shows how much technology has developed and how many people’s lives depend on the greatest invention of the digital revolution. It also shows how the invention has been improved with social media, internet, and more. I mean my god even the apple 1 created in 1977 revolutionized computers. They were the first computers that were sold in kit form which was so much easier than using lights and switches. Another creation from apple was the ipad. Before the ipad you had to learn how to use a computer but with it you had no real learning to do, it had everything you needed at your fingertips. With all the new apple products releasing they had to make something to keep people entertained and so they created the app store. Which has thousands of apps which keeps everyone satisfied. It’s apps verry from sports to news, and so on, it has all the social medias as well.

Anthony R

11/17/2015 01:44:30 pm

Mathieu M.

11/17/2015 01:57:43 pm

I agree with this Anthony. I feel as if Apple is better than Android because it has so many different features. It also has lots of apps that Android doesn't have yet.

Justin E

11/17/2015 01:44:10 pm

I think that the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution would be the smartphone. I believe that this is the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution because everything is at the tip of your finger. You can call, text, facetime, or search anything on the internet at the click of a button. The first smartphone ever made was the IBI Simon in 1992. The prototype of the IBI Simon was made in 1992 but in 1994 BellSouth Cellular released the handset in the United States. The smartphone has changed the lives of millions of Americans because they do everything on their smartphones now. They can pay their bills from their phone, they can find a recipe on how to cook something on their phones, and they can even Video Chat anybody around the whole world on their smartphone too! Many things can be done on the smartphone, that it’s so hard to list all of them. Americans lives have also been changed because they are always on their smartphones doing something on it. The smartphone has changed my life because it has made things much easier for me. What I mean by that is that I can google anything whenever I need help I can just google it and it will tell me the answer or I can call anybody for an emergency. I feel that the smartphone is also ruining my life because it has messed up my vision and has also made me dumber in some way. It has made me dumber because I’m always googling the answer and it actually wastes so much time since I watch a lot of youtube videos. I feel that the cellphone led to many new technologies such as wifi and the internet. The smartphone may also spawn newer technologies such as things that do stuff for you.

Alani R.

11/17/2015 04:14:57 pm

I agree with your statements about how they're very handy but ruin eyesight. I also agree with how they basically do work for us by giving us definitions and the answers to questions.

Alaijah P.

11/17/2015 04:22:35 pm

I agree with you. The smartphone is defiantly one of the greatest piece's of technology. It allows them to access almost anything and it's easier than carrying a huge laptop. You can access anything at the tip of your fingers and its amazing that it can fit in your pocket. Well said response!

Mathieu M.

11/17/2015 01:49:54 pm

I think the greatest thing invented in the Digital Revolution would be computers. I think this because if it wasn't for the computer, it would have never needed internet, and internet might not have been invented. And smartphones would be boring without internet. Also computers help with school work. If you need some information that you can't find in a book, you can use a computer to search what you need. The first computer was made in the early 19th century. It changed the lives of Americans because they don't have to walk to a library to look up information unless they don't have a computer. It changed my life because I can now access any information with the click of a button. The computer then evolved into what we are using to type these blogs. Laptops. The laptop is a smaller portable version of a computer. No need for a huge monitor and computer. This has helped humans because they can access the internet anywhere they go.

Wolfgang C.

11/17/2015 04:29:12 pm

I agree with you Mathieu. I think without computers, many of the other advances people listed would not exist. It has changed the way most people live and revolutionized almost everything.

Jesse L.

11/17/2015 01:52:22 pm

I believe that the internet is one of the greatest contributions to modern society because it allows us to do so many things on all our devices. Without the internet most of our devices would be worthless, unless you could pay for data constantly for your phone or watch Netflix offline, but since most people can’t afford to do that the internet has helped us a lot with how our devices operate and what we can do with them. The internet was invented in 1969, but it has come very far basically available most places in the world and it helps us with modern day life. We can use the internet for school work or we can use it for enjoyment. It’s one of the most useful and necessary things in life for people who use technology. The internet has changed life for many Americans because now we can use text and email to connect with people that sometimes are quite far from us. For example if there is someone in Florida that I want to talk to and I live in California, I can text them and get my message to them in 5 seconds instead of getting it to them in 2 days by letter. The internet has given us a wide network of information that can help us with solving problems and doing work in school without having to go to a library or get help from a teacher who might not be available to help at a given time, while the internet will be available. The internet has changed my life specifically because I have to use the internet a lot for school because my school does a lot of its assignments through google classroom. Also I use the internet a lot for social media and other things like Netflix. The internet has spawned overtime because it was originally not a worldwide thing now it’s available almost anywhere. I think that the internet will spawn even more so that people will no longer have to have just a single connection coming from their internet modem, but instead there will be one big internet tower(s) spread into different locations to give internet to that population of people.

Renina W.

11/17/2015 04:59:20 pm

I really agree with your point about how we can connect with people who are far from us. Without having innovated ways of communication such as texting or face time families or friends wouldn't be able to stay close, or keep a relationship.

Emmanuel P.

11/17/2015 01:52:31 pm

The invention that I perceive as the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution has to be the smartphone. The first smartphone was created in 1992. The reason why I think the smartphone is considered to be the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution is because it has many more tools/resources than just calling someone with a regular flip phone. The whole world is at your fingertips with this little device. (expect if you have the iPhone 6 or any Samsung Galaxy which is considered to be large in hand) You can do various things such as look at a map for directions, look up the meaning of word, and etc., without actually looking a map or a dictionary. It has changed Americans lives by giving them another alternative than to just actually doing these sort of tasks. It has also changed Americans lives by revealing them to another source of technology in a time period where what we mostly use is technology. It has changed my life personally by giving me another way to communicate with my peers and it has furthermore made me learn new information that I have never learned before. The smartphone may potentially spawn because someone might find a new way to do something that may improve the smartphone or may find a new feature to add to it. Just like how people evolve, technology evolves with it.

Melissa E.

11/17/2015 01:57:20 pm

This was really well put! Your opinion made me think that our society today DOES rely on the smartphone for all of these purposes that help us through our lives. I agree that it's easy and helpful to be able to reach into your packet and be able to get directions, the meanings of words, etc.

Melissa E.

11/17/2015 01:52:50 pm

I believe that the invention that contributed our generation the greatest is the Internet. Our society today relies so heavily on the use of the Internet that our world would honestly be corrupt without it. The Internet is used by everyone, even the military. Everyday citizens use it for leisure and communication, but the governments and the military use it for radars and communication as well. Without the internet, our society would not be the way it is today since we're so shaped around it. The Internet helps us communicate with anyone, anytime, and anywhere. The whole world is digitally connected due to this. I do admit, the Internet IS most definitely efficient and has saved our society large amounts of money. The first functional version of the Internet came around in the late 1960's from the creation of ARPANET or the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network.

The Internet has changed the life for Americans because we base our whole "culture" off of it. Our American presidential candidates rely on the Internet to promote themselves for why they should be next to run our country. Most music artists rely on the internet to spread their music to a large point of success. Every move that America takes, relies on the web. The Internet has definitely changed my life as well. Like most of the world, my life relies on it. I use the Internet to communicate with my far-distanced families as well as my family members that I live with. I use the Internet to do my homework and have a social life. Without the Internet, I'd be an anti-social brick. I'm not the only person in my family that abuses the Internet as well. I might as well admit that my family completely relies on it as well. My mother is a Customer Service representative and her job is to sit in front of a computer all day and reply to e-mails!

The Internet has already spawned new advancements. There are millions of apps invented to improve our daily lives. New phones and programs have been created to support the use of the Internet. The technology that we have today is new, but it will most definitely spark even newer ones. Apple already has 12 different iPhones released but nothing is stopping them to keep improving them. Newer technology will surely be spawned in the years to come. The Internet has contributed the most to our modern society and it defines the Digital Revolution.

Gianna G.

11/17/2015 05:48:57 pm

I agree with you when you say that society today relies heavily on the use of the internet. I am literally typing this on the internet right now and this assignment wouldn't even exist without it. It is amazing how many jobs (like your mom's) are primarily based on the use of the internet and how many lives it has affected. Great examples and amazing explanation!

Shalom K.

11/17/2015 01:56:22 pm

I think the greatest invention created during the digital age is the smart phone. Specifically the iPhone. The first iPhone was created in 2007. It benefits Americans because it allows them easy access to almost all information at the touch of a button. It can allow users to store information like pictures, music, and books all on one device which would eliminate the need for having all different devices for each of those subjects. Not having to buy all devices as well as what they are used for could save users a lot of money which is why I think they have the biggest impact on Americans today. The apple store available on all iPhones gives users thousands of apps allowing them to explore a lot of different useful items such as games, educational item, and others apps that could help them easily find and explore things from the comfort of their homes. iPhones are also good for safety because they have a feature that makes it possible to find an iPhone when it is lost. This can prevent users having to buy a new phone every time which again can help them save. There is also easy access to maps on the phone which can help users find their way around somewhere while also making it easier to carry less stuff or have a backup in case they forget their map. The feature that I personally believe is the best is Siri. Siri is a feature on an iPhone that allows you to command things and access apps or contacts without even using your hands. All you have to do is ask. That is why the iPhone is the most impacting device of the digital age.

Olivia F.

11/17/2015 04:15:01 pm

You make a strong point about having more than one thing like music, books, etc. all in one phone. The iPhone does have amazing features, and Apple continues to improve their electronics, which benefits us. Well done!

Jesse L.

11/17/2015 04:20:38 pm

I agree that the smartphone is one of the greatest inventions because they help communicate with your friends and family. I think that the smartphone helps with many people's lives and it is a big part in lots of peoples lives. The smartphones, especially the iPhones have many apps and accessories that entertain and inform people.

Alani R.

11/17/2015 02:00:31 pm

I would consider the internet to be the greatest invention of the Digital Era. I believe the internet is the greatest contribution to modern society because with internet access, you can practically access anything. You can access shows, games, and social media. Today, almost one-third of the world’s 6.8 billion people use the Internet regularly. There are also many reasons why the internet is the greatest contribution to modern society. One of these reasons are being able to search something and get an accurate answer, whether it's a definition or research for a project. All you have to do on your device is type in the keywords and multiple links with answers will pop up.

The internet has no "single" inventor, it evolved over time. It started in the United States more than 50 years ago as a government in the Cold War. For many years, scientists and researchers used it to communicate and share data with one another. Today, we use the Internet for almost everything, and for many people it would be impossible to imagine life without it. So the internet has evolved and made more efficient from the late 1950's to the early 1990's.

The internet has changed the lives of Americans drastically due to the things you can access by using the internet. They mostly use social media and watch shows on their devices. If your usually using the internet and on your device, it affects how you think and react. You can start to become more insecure by seeing what society believes. This can also affect your social skills. We are all in a world of technology and we become anxious without access to the internet to be able to go on social media and other things that need the internet to function. The internet has changed my life by becoming more focused on social media and video games than I have before. I've noticed I'm usually watching Netflix, playing video games, or doing something else that requires internet connection.

The internet has spawned many inventions like Apple products, phones, tablets, laptops, and game consoles. Most inventions that are created now usually need internet access for it to be able to function. They also sometimes have apps that you can use to link with the device or activate it. So due to the creation of the internet, most of our inventions require internet access. I'm sure there will be many other inventions that are more advanced that will require internet access as well.

Xzayah B.

11/17/2015 06:02:34 pm

This was really well put! The internet has done so much for us in our everyday lives. I agree with what you said, we can easily do school work because of the internet.

Olivia F.

11/17/2015 04:11:53 pm

As I ponder about the innovations of technology, and how we use it in our everyday lives, the greatest contribution to modern society is the Internet. I think the Internet is the greatest contribution to the Digital Revolution because it gives people the accessibility to it, and they value its uses that it offers.

The Internet was created on January 1st 1983. Then, researchers began to assemble the “networks of networks” that became the modern Internet. Over the past thirty-two years, Americans were and are able to do anything like research or play games, with just the click of a button. I think that Americans are becoming smarter when they search things on the Internet, but may not 100 percent remember things. Their lives have changed, however, because now we can go online and play games or order pizza, for example.

The Internet has changed my life as well as others in a few ways. For starters, in school, I can easily do any school work on the chrome book because my ability to access the Internet. I can search something with just a few key words and a click of a button. The Internet has gone global, and as it improves throughout the years, new features are offered for users. The Internet is great for me for school purposes and for fun, as well.

The Internet’s technology spawned the incredible and favorable WiFi. Many smartphones use WiFi to access the Internet, and mac books or chrome books, do as well. This makes sure you have great connection to communicate with friends or family, or whatever you may feel like doing. WiFi gives people the advantage of speed and fast loading for websites and other things. With the Internet and WiFi, Americans can do what they have to do in a shorter time period.

Alaijah P.

11/17/2015 04:12:38 pm

I believe the Internet has had the greatest contribution to society and one of the greatest inventions of the Digital Revolution. Now the reason I believe this is, well, look around without it then we wouldn't have half of the things we have now. It gives us access to almost anything just by a few clicks of the mouse. We can access anything from news articles, to the latest installment of Doctor Who. The internet has allowed us to advance in technology and allow us to create more items of the digital kind. The internet has given us access to information on almost anything and we can view that information just by typing some words in the search bar. Most likely without the internet then we wouldn't be where we are today. With the help of the internet, it has given ideas to other companies and have allowed them to create other digital items that most of the world finds enjoyment in using. It also has allowed us to communicate with people across the world because it’s a hassle to try and communicate face to face. The internet has allowed the creation of other social media sites, which means now we can view what our friends and family do across the globe making the internet, if not greatest, one of the greatest inventions of the Digital Era. The way it has changed my life is when I need to do research on a specific topic, i can just search it on the internet instead of spending most of time looking through books. The internet was invented in 1958 and has changed the lives of most Americans. It has allowed them to advance in almost everything. The citizens of america can now do most work from their home thanks to the Internet. Although it has lead to people being anti-social, it has allowed them to access knowledge anywhere they go. So if you ask me I think the Internet is one of the greatest inventions of the Digital Revolution. Thank you for your time.

Emmanuel P.

11/17/2015 10:27:59 pm

I do agree that the Internet is one of the greatest inventions in the Digital Revolution that we are living in right now. Now that I think about, I said the smartphone was the greatest invention in the Digital Era. Without the Internet, you couldn't do half of the things that you could do without it on a smartphone.

Makayla R.

11/17/2015 10:57:15 pm

I completely agree with you and what you are trying to say. What I said was very similar to what you were getting at about the internet being one of the most greatest inventions in the Digital Era. Your points are very strong!

Renina W.

11/17/2015 04:55:33 pm

I think the smartphone has been the greatest contribution to modern society. There are many factors for why I believe the the smartphone has the been the greatest invention towards our modern society. The smartphone is a very small device that basically has everything right there at your fingertips. On a smartphone you can call, text, browse the web, check work, read books, listen to music, the things you can do with a smartphone is endless. The reason I believe the smartphone is a great invention is because for example if you are going on a road trip, and you want to read books, listen to music, do work that is a bunch of stuff for someone to be carrying around. A smartphone has all of those features and more making life way easier. Secondly it keeps people up to date. There are many new apps and sites for news with the latest new from hours even minutes ago. Lastly smartphones are an easier way to communicate. For smartphones there are many apps and sites for people to communicate besides the simple calling, texting, and emailing. There are sites such as instagram, snapchat, twitter, facebook, all types of sites. As you can see there are many things you can do with the power of a smartphone.

The smartphone was established in 1992. Now of course from 1992 to today 2015 the smartphone is COMPLETELY different. The first ever smartphone was the IBM Simon, and at that time in 1992 I am sure it changed Americans as the iphone has today. In 2007 the iphone was established, and from that point it has truly changed Americans. Even though I believe the smartphone was our greatest invention there are some setbacks, especially in how it has changed us Americans. Today with all of the apps such as instagram and snapchat it has affected a number of things. Starting with looks, people are beginning to feel judged because they don’t meet a standard. Also it has affected people’s future because people will display inappropriate comments or photos not realizing people can search that and lastly things of that nature have encouraged cyber bullying as well, but despite the fact smartphones have done this they have also made families close. For example now there is facetime, which is a face to face video chat, plus there is also texting calling, the types of ways to communicate are endless. Not only has the smartphone changed people around me, but it has also changed me. I believe the smartphone has become a defaulted distraction, so it is to the point that if my phone vibrates goes off I check it without thinking. Also I think is has decreased my emotions and social skills therefore I find it now awkward to have deep discussions with my family. Lastly I believe it has decreased my imagination and thought process for example when I am on my smartphone there is no need to think with access to everything, and there is no need to imagine what this or that will be like because it’s just right there.

Smartphones have spawned many newer devices. Now today there are smartwatches, kindles, nooks, ipads, and more. I believe the smartphone has spawned newer device because people in our society want more of what they can have. Also as jobs and our world becomes more innovated our technology will have to keep up with the progress and work. Lastly I think it will spawn new technologies because after while people begin to get bored with what is offered and want more of it.

Gianna G.

11/17/2015 05:42:46 pm

I believe that the smartphone is the greatest contribution to modern society. I believe this for countless reasons. First of all, they are extremely helpful in many ways. Let’s talk about communication. Sure you can call people on a flip phone without the need of apps or even email someone from your computer. But, why would you waste your time? A smartphone can do all that and more. You can call, text, email, or even direct message someone all on one device. Most people are constantly needing to talk to others, but they aren’t together all of the time. How do you talk to them? With a click of a button you can shoot them an email, give them a quick call, or even text them just for a few ways in which you can get your message through. Another way that smartphones are helpful is that they can help you when you forget your wallet. What I mean by this is some smartphones have a way for you to sync your credit card into your phone. Oh, you forgot your wallet at home. Not a problem, most people never forget their phones, with that splendid conclusion you will always have the money you need right in your pocket.

If you thought that that’s all smartphones can do, then you’re wrong. Smartphones can tell you the weather, the date, how to solve a math problem, weekly stocks, remind you of important events, allow you to know where your friends are, and even allow you to manage your health! It is crazy to see how many ways smartphones make everyone’s lives a bit easier. But, smartphones do not only provide us with helpful contributions. Another way smartphones are the greatest contribution is the ways in which they entertain us. Games, movies, TV shows, social media, and many other types of apps help us to entertain or to be entertained.

The first smartphone was invented in 1992 and was called the IBM Simon. Although it’s been 23 years since the beginning of the smartphone, there is still so much more that they can do. The smartphone has changed life for americans by making so many things so much easier (as you can see by my many examples). The smartphone has changed my life specifically because it has made it much easier and much more efficient. Whenever I need help with homework or just want to listen to some music my phone has made it as easy as can be. Smartphones, in my opinion, will be able to spawn many new types of technology, but for now, smartphones will continue to try and get even more advanced. That is why I believe that the smartphone is the greatest contribution to modern society.

Dante D.

11/17/2015 07:14:22 pm

I support your opinion because it's very similar to my opinion. I like how you listed different reasons on why you think that the smartphone is the greatest contribution to modern society. I found it interesting when you talked about separate utilities of the smartphone in your second paragraph and I thought that you made a great point when you were describing forgetting your wallet and how smartphones could be a solution to this frequent problem. I definitely agree with you.

Xzayah B.

11/17/2015 05:54:42 pm

I think smartphones are the greatest contribution to modern society. On smartphones you can call, text, send emails, go on the internet, and so much more. Smart phones help us out so much and I think if all of modern society had to stop using them, we would be lost without them. Smart phones were invented in 1992 by Bell South. It has changed life for Americans because our life depends so much on smartphones. People write and send important emails for their jobs. They call and text to stay in touch with friends and family. They also go on the internet if they need to look up something really quick. It has changed my life greatly. If I don’t have my phone, I have nothing to do and I feel really bored. I use my phone to do many things including doing my homework assignments and go on social media. Besides smartphones being a luxury, it’s also very helpful. With smartphones new, and creative apps will be spawned as well as many other stuff.

Isabella R.

11/17/2015 06:37:04 pm

I believe that one of mans greatest contributions to society is GPS's or Global Positioning System. They were created in 1973. I find them so important because (as all technology) they made life that much easier. As a child I used to live in New York and the drives back to RI for visits were always long and confusing. We had one of those really thick map-books, and it was our only way there. Obviously it was not impossible to get to and from with a map, but it wasn't simple either. We know occasionally visit our old home but now we have a GPS. That make the ride a little bit shorter, and not as stressful as before. GPS's to have evolved into apps on someone's phone but are still great tools. They can pin point where you are, and how far away where you need to go is, as well as how long your trip will take you. It's changed people's lives nation wide because it makes travel easy, and I think travel is a big part of Americans lives. Taking road trips are fun because there is no reason to worry about the directions and getting there part. Even to shorter unknown distances, it can save your trip from being a lot less crazy. For me personally GPS's have made car rides simpler, my mom and I once got lost after a concert, and she just brought out her GPS and we didn't have to worry too much. I believe as far as GPS's will go with new inventions is self-driving cars that are GPS's as well. Although I believe those are beginning to be in the works. It'd be pretty interesting to have cars that know where they're going, and make driving 100% effortless! Which is (unfortunately) the main point of this digital era. That's why I believe a GPS is so important.

Grace J

11/17/2015 07:02:59 pm

I never thought about this but I totally see your point. I can't even imagine what people did before the GPS to see where to go in the car. The countless times I have gotten lost in the car with my family the GPS has helped. I think that you picked a really good invention to write about!

Dante D.

11/17/2015 07:00:48 pm

I believe that the smartphone was one of the greatest inventions in the Digital Revolution. I think that it was a great invention because it made life for Americans so much easier and with the development of the first smartphone, there was only room to improve. Now we can do so much more on a phone than just call emergency contacts or other people. We can access the internet and download other apps to assist us in everyday life. Yes, the smartphone will always have its downsides but it’s a very useful machine to have these days. They give you an advantage in modern day living. The first smartphone ever to be released was the IBM Simon Personal Communicator. It was made in 1992, but it officially released two years later when the company of BellSouth Cellular decided to make the handset available publically for $899 on a 2-year contract or $1099 without commitment. As it developed, Americans received more ways in which to use smartphones. It became more convenient for people to use and the basic functions of a modern smartphone are really all you need. Now we can time things and play music and download pretty much anything over the internet. We can use smartphones to help us solve problems or research pretty much anything by using the internet. It’s like a mini-computer that you can hold in your hand. It’s also much better than lugging around a bulky laptop wherever you go. Most smartphones hold a considerable amount of storage as well so you can hold all of your data and bring everything you need so you can have access whenever you want.

Tell me, what else could you do with those old brick phones except call? Absolutely nothing, that’s what. Some people say that smartphones are useless and don’t provide much more than a regular cell phone. The smartphone can tell you many useful things that you couldn’t get on a normal cell phone. Smartphones can tell you the weather, show you a calendar, schedule important events, take digital photos, manage health, allow you to watch movies and television shows, play games, use social media, contact your friends and family, allow you to read, navigate maps, and so much more! There are almost infinite possibilities to they can do. Anything you think of, there’s probably an app for that somewhere.

Honestly, there’s still much more that could be improved about smartphones. I wonder where we’ll be at in another 5 years. Look at how far we’ve come from the first smartphone was created in 1992. In a span of 23 years, they have become much better and even more smart. The sky's the limit and who knows how far away from that we are. Living life has been made much more convenient with smartphones and new innovative technology has already sprung from the idea of the smartphone. Things like the Apple Watch and that other Samsung watch that I’ve seen on TV but haven’t payed attention to because I admit that they probably bit off Apple are examples of new ideas coming from the smartphone. If we could take the information used to create smartphones, I’m sure that it could influence the building of new tech being made to let life be even easier. So this, ladies and gentlemen, is why I think that the smartphone is one of the greatest inventions in the Digital Revolution.

Niamiah J

11/17/2015 08:27:35 pm

I agree with your statement. I believe that smartphones are the most beneficial invention in the Digital Revolution. Smartphones are easier to use and carry than a computer. They also provide much more than the blackberry and flip phones such as social media, a better camera system, better internet access, and so much more. I am also excited to see what smartphones will be like in 5 years. Very well said Dante.

Niamiah J

11/17/2015 08:09:39 pm

I think that the greatest invention of the Digital revolution and has improved modern society is the smartphone. These phones live up to their name by providing us with beneficial resources we need to do well in life. The fact that we’re able to talk to the phone and it responding to us it breathtaking. In 1992 the first smartphone was created and called IBM Simon. Simon was a big box shaped phone. From then on smartphones has innovated to what we call iPhone's, Samsung Galaxy’s, the list goes on. Smartphones has helped us Americans by providing the resources we need right at the palm of our hands. Why carry a whole set of encyclopedias when I can look it up on the internet, on a dictionary app, or even better ask Siri? You can do all of that in one little device. You can do everything on that one little device such as music, math, games, socializing, movies, the list goes on. Smartphones has helped by taking a huge weight off of my shoulders, literally. Instead of carrying tons of unnecessary books in textbooks in my bag I could carry a phone in my hand. I could find everything I need within a search or screenshot. It also eliminates future back pain so it is good for the health. Smartphones has spawned Ipad's and other tablets. Tablets are bigger versions of phones. There's also smart watches that is small and attached to the wrist making it easy to get to. Smartphones are a big advantage to the Digital revolution. Everything you need is right at the tip of your fingertips thanks to smartphones. Smartphones put the smart in phones.

Kayla P.

11/17/2015 08:38:37 pm

I think the cell phone is the greatest invention of the Digital Revolution, I feel that it contributes to modern society by introducing things that we all like as well as taking things that are not always with us when we want them to be and allowing them to be with us. For example time is now something that we have easy access to. Awhile ago when there were no cellphones one of the only ways you could tell time by looking at the sky and knowing what time it was or I imagine there were public clocks that you would pass on your way to your destination. Another thing the smart phones do is allow us to access information we need to without wifi or any cords, allows us to read and interact with people when we aren’t around them. Smartphones allow us to do so many things with one device and they are getting smarter. You can basically do whatever you want on your smartphone or access anything you want in less than 2 seconds. It’s changed life for Americans by making everything seem to go faster. Also we have become dependent on these devices and it’s making us change a lot of the things we do. For instance constantly looking at these phones can ruin our eyes and posture because we tend to lower our necks to look at the phones. Also we don’t know as much because we don’t have to it’s all on our phones. Also it changed us in a bad way. Nowadays bullying is a big problem and kids are now an easy target to get bullied. Before cell phones were invented kids would get bullied and then would be able to go home and not here anymore bullying.Now that we have all this technology(cellphones, ipods, computers) theres no real way for kids to escape these bullies. Which causes suicide and depression. I am pretty dependant on my phone I use it for everything and I’m constantly thinking about it. I mostly listen to music on my phone because music helps me focus. I now have a personal relationship with my phone, it’s so personal that when my phone is missing I can feel it. We have a mutual energy and we need each other. The first iPhone was released June 29, 2007 and the first smartphone was released August 16, 1994 at $899 with a two year contract or you could buy it at $1099 with no commitment. Smartphones may spawn smarter phones but I don’t think they will become like a thin sheet of metal. It will always be a smartphone with a similar structure but smarter.

Adrian F

11/17/2015 09:27:13 pm

I think that the best invention in the digital age has been the Laptop. I think this has been the greatest invention because they can offer so much. Being invented in 1981 by Adam Osborne, the laptops have had many many years to grow and develop in many ways. Laptops can be used for educational purposes, work, videos, and many other things that can be done with the access of Wi-Fi. Laptops have revolutionized the efficieny of those uses listed, they have made it easier for kids like us to get our homework done, and with laptops, teachers and others who work also have it easier because it is easy to send emails. Laptops have evolved so much that now they can be touch screen and can have a keyboard that can detach. They can do almost anything within digital limitations. That is why I think the laptop is one of the greatest, if not the greatest invention of the digital age.

Digital Revolution: The Greatest Inventions of Our Time

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