Yes and no. Over the past 6-8 years I have noticed that I have met many acquaintances and new friends who I probably do not see too often since we are all living our separate lives. Yes it takes us away from reality and shows us the sides of people that they want to show. It reduces genuine conversations and social practice to a few emojis and status updates. It creates anxiety within people and leaves them feeling left out when they see their peers doing something that they might want to do as well. Instagram, facebook and snapchat can also turn into an addiction or nervous tick and is almost like an extension to our mind. I have found myself browsing a feed, closing the app only to reopen the app right after Ive closed it. So because of all of these reasons it does separate us. But beyond the bad stuff, technology also can bring us together if used properly. Friends that I havent seen or heard from in a long time dont seem all that far away because you can talk to them everyday and see what is going on in their lives to when you meet up in real life its a more smooth transition and they can elaborate on their experiences. I am able to communicate with my cousins in India and not feel like a stranger when I go to visit. We are able to call for help or provide live updates through streaming. I would say that to most effectively use technology there must be a balance. We don't want to get left behind but also should not sell our soul completely to the screen.