Computers are useful, but have drawbacks as well.
In modern times, computers are present in nearly every home, place of business and classroom. As of October 2009, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that roughly 120,000 households in America alone owned a personal computer. Additionally, nearly 70 percent of homes in the United States had Internet access at the time of this study. With such rampant use, computers clearly offer benefits, but there are downsides of computer use to consider as well.
Pro: Entertaining
The multimedia possibilities of modern computers are practically limitless. Computers allow users to listen to music, play video games, browse the web, watch movies and keep up with their friends all from the comfort of their homes. As computer technology continues to improve over time, more and more possibilities are created daily.
Pro: Educational
Computers are also useful when paired up with the learning process, whether inside or outside of classrooms. Teachers use computers to aid presentations, giving pupils a more visual educational experience. Students receive the benefit of learning software designed to teach new concepts in entertaining methods in addition to access to the Internet for research assistance.
Pro: Convenient
With a computer in the house, gone are the days of writing school papers by hand and paying bills via the postal mail. Computers add convenience to daily life, often turning a previously complicated task into a simple one. Users can even do their work or get an education from a computer.
Con: Health Concerns
Extensive long-term use of computers may result in a variety of health issues affecting the entire body. Wrist and finger pain may occur in users who spend years typing with improper mechanics. Other users develop lower back, spine or neck pain from poor posture. Straining to see the screen in addition to exposure to the brightness of the computer monitor may cause blurred vision, headaches and other issues for the eyes.
Con: Potentially Dangerous
With so many computers connected to the Internet, users are at risk for a number of safety issues. Viruses, spyware and other forms of malware are a continual problem, and these threats may destroy files or steal personal information. Computers also give predators a new medium to take advantage of children in addition to creating a whole new class of cyber crimes for criminals to commit.
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