Technology In E. M. Forster's The Machine Stops

Humans are slowly becoming more reliant on technology as decades come and go. Science Fiction often imagines a world where human are utterly dependent on machinery and robots. Occasionally to the point where they are more metal and wires than they are human. Currently there is a clear distinction between man and manmade. Many still go without electricity, phones and computers. That is where we can separate ourselves from a fantasy world. However Science Fiction has casted a looming question over us all, will there be a time when we no longer depend on others, and solely electronics.

In The Machine Stops by E.M. Forster the machine is a metal God, it brings food, air, education and virtual contact with others. The people who have created it now can’t live without it. Once it stops, so does everyone’s lives. ¬This is more of a rarity

There is no worshipping of machinery, the gods today still remain rooted in thousand year old books. People are constantly scolding others for being on their phones too much. Feeling guilty for watching too much TV, complaining about advancements like CDs dying. People have not accepted technology fully into their lives like many do in Science Fiction, Wall-E and The Machine Stops being primary examples, the technology is only met with acceptance and eagerness. Save one or two people against the grain.

As the world today becomes more and more like science fiction, many fear and fight the chances. Control of today’s creations the largest difference. As time moves forward that may change. Lines between reality and Science Fiction are blurred regularly. The power to turn simply turn off could disappear. While people are readily welcoming self-driving cars, lab made meat, minds may change. One day the world may echo fictional creations. Where people welcome new advances, rely on their gadgets and gizmos. As religion becomes less popular, Gods will be replaces with tablets and