A Technological “Mad World”

The above video is a creation by Moby Videos and song writer Gary Jules. The video showcases a depressive yet realistic view of the world we live in today. A world that is consumed by technology. When watching take note of the video image, the music lyrics, and then think about the connection in our world. Perhaps you’ll find that even you do some of the same things.

The Video

The video displayed consists of a large amount of animations. One of the many reasons why I think this video is pure genius is because the creators decided to convey such a heavy topic in an artistic medium that is usually seen as more light-heart and comical. At first you might think that the video is going to be something funny but really the goal is to bring the viewer to a much deeper realization.

The video shows disturbing scenes such as suicide, abuse, harassment, and neglect. But the biggest theme is the fact that every human being is to communed with their cell phones to care about the lives of other individuals.

One scene that stood out to me was the one where the girl was on the train and clearly felt very uncomfortable with the guy standing next to her. Everyone else on the train besides the little boy doesn’t notice though. They’re all on their cell phones, minding their own business. This to me is very relevant because I, like so many other young students, often find myself surrounded by numerous people on their cellphones. Especially on the bus, sidewalk, and other public areas. And I can’t help but think, if something happened to me would they know? Would they help? Would they even care?

The Music

The music in this piece is so much more than just background music. The chorus suggest that we live in a “mad” world. A world that far surpassed any sort of odd or “though life” label. The world is not kind or compassionate but crazy, insane, the way we live makes no sense. This suggestion hits home when it comes to technology. Some of our uses for technology are so crazy and insane that it makes no sense.

“Worn out places, worn out faces. Bright and early for their daily races. Going nowhere, going nowhere”. These lyrics are also make a stab at the way we use technology. We are so often attending events just so we can take photos and post them for our “friends” to see, and so we gain recognition and popularity. But most of the time we’re, like the song says, “going nowhere.” A family member once told me, “Social media allows us to view people at their best when we’re at our worst”. It’s really no wonder how social media can cause depression.

Our Technological Mad World

The connection between this mad world and our own technology may seem obvious for most people. However, how many of us will actually change? One of the most important details of this video is the fact that it is from a child’s perspective. How do children and teens perceive us when we use technology? Children are the most important factor when it comes to the world’s future. We must take a stand, lead by example and not allow technology to get the best of us.

I challenge you to turn off your devices every once in a while. To walk outside, in the fresh air, while listening to nothing but the birds chirp. Be aware of your surroundings. Make small talk with someone on the bus. Delete social media for a week. Or at least try not to use your cell phone when someone is talking you.

We are only one step away from a mad world.