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About this quote

What does it mean?
Increasing the complexity of communication tools often reduces the quality of actual connection.
In plain terms
More advanced communication tools can mean less real communication.
What can you take from it?
Complex tools do not guarantee better communication.

Where it applies

  • tech critique
  • workplace communication

Putting it to work

  • simplify communication
  • focus on substance

Questions to consider

  • Are you communicating more or less?
  • What counts as real connection?

Another view

It overlooks that better tools can also enhance meaningful exchanges.

More from Joseph Priestley

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  2. This is unfortunately a world in which things find it difficult, frequently impossible, to live up to their names.

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  3. She was a handsome woman of forty-five and would remain so for many years.

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