Is Technology Killing Romance?

Personally, I would say yes. I don’t consider myself old-fashioned (I am only 30) and am a very passionate, expressive person. Some may consider my sexuality a little too liberal or provocative; no matter. I have a website dedicated to expressing my views and tastes concerning passion, intimacy, romance and the sexual nature of humans. This aside, I guess I am old-fashioned when it comes to romance and communication. Sadly, I believe technology is smothering our ability to convey romance and intimacy.

A cute, flirty text message here and there is fine and can be sweet. A quick email from your partner telling you they can’t wait to see you after work or that they were just thinking of you is sweet as well. But with all these advancements in technological communication (e-cards, phone apps that can do just about anything, unlimited texting plans, etc) I feel technological communication is increasingly replacing our physical voice and touch.

All this technology is supposed to keep people closer together, and in fact, it seems to be a replacement for real conversation and company. Honestly, would you rather have a hand-written card (or one at least signed) or a text message or email? And honestly, would you rather your partner tell you how much they love you and crave you via text or have them embrace you and tell you in person? People are losing the ability to communicate in person, which is the main ingredient in romance and the longevity of a relationship.

Technology is a major reason why relationships are not lasting. A 2009 survey by the National Trust, a British civil organization dedicated to preserving historic properties, proves that indeed technology is snuffing out romance. Results of the survey showed that:

• 62 percent of Brits have never written a love letter
• Only 20 percent of respondents said they have never written a love poem
• 69 percent of 2,558 respondents said they express love through text messages or emoticons on mobile phones

Where do we go from here? How about putting that cell phone away for starters. And if you must you use your cell phone, how about using it for its original purpose: to phone someone! Maybe even get back to writing a letter or quick love note. You might be surprised how a handwritten what-have-you will please your partner. And don’t worry about the content, a little goes a long way in the realm of romance.