"Let us call this unexpected, unwelcome part of our atmosphere 'data smog,' an expression for the noxious muck and dreck of the information age. Data smog gets in the way; it crowds out quiet moments, and obstructs much-needed contemplation. It thwarts skepticism, rendering us less sophisticated as consumers and citizens," writes media scholar David Shenk in this blistering critique of the unintended consequences of the information age.
The author, who is an Internet enthusiast, charts the dire effects information technology is having upon our health, our memories, our relationships, and our sense of self. Shenk believes that this data glut is Balkanizing our nation, coarsening our culture, and turning the political process of democracy into a charade based upon public opinion. It is also creating "a medley of unsavory characters and powerful industries." Shenk skillfully discusses the high price we paying for dataveillance (the collection of a hyper-sophisticated brand of marketing analysis), upgrade mania, and anecdotage (the spread of gossip and lies). Since data smog is now a permanent part of our social landscape, the author suggests that the only antidote is for each individual to be his or her own filter, editor, and de-nichefier.