Analog versus Digital
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Digital technology has brought many wonders: connectivity, instant communication, the latest meme, Netflix, Spotify, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, Skype, Google, and of course, YouTube cat videos. But a new movement is bringing back analog. It may be the latest trend in obnoxious Millenial Hipsterism, but recent trends like living a “zero waste” lifestyle and a movement from digital music to old school records appear to be an indication that this generation is coming back to Earth from their smartphones.
Even four generations ago, the question of digital versus analog did not exist in popular culture, but now it is a question that seems to come up more and more. In his book, “Analog ist das Neue Bio” (Analog is the New Organic), author André Wilkens argues that we are returning to an analog lifestyle in the wake of Snowden, and recent news about what data is being collected by corporations when we are online. He draws a comparison of the “analog movement” to the “organic food movement” which is now fairly mainstream in most places. He cites that digital culture, like conventionally farmed food, does and will continue to make up a large portion of our culture; analog movements, like organics, will become more important in the future.
Recent studies suggest that humans remember better when they use analog, e.g., write with a pen on paper or maintain eye contact with someone to whom they’re speaking (instead of looking at their phone). Analog culture is also coming back to the forefront as a management strategy for stress, anxiety, workaholism, and other mental health issues. Experts agree that a reduction in digital engagement and interaction usually increases the time available for analog activities like more sleep, real face-to-face conversation, and a meditation practice, which can help with stress management and other mental health issues.
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