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Technology In The Pedestrian, By Ray Bradbury

470 Words2 Pages

Differences are what makes individuals, individuals. In the short story, “The Pedestrian,” Ray Bradbury depicts a society consumed by technology, in which humans become cold and disconnected one another. Children are encouraged to watch television instead of participating in sports or reading books. Bradbury uses the contrasting characterizations of the main character, Leonard Mead, and the futuristic setting to emphasize that technology is dehumanizing. In the community Leonard Mead lives in, technology takes the place of human interaction. As Mr. Mead takes his daily walks through the city, he enjoys whispering conversations to dimly lit houses. He would say to them, “‘Eight-thirty P.M.? Time for a dozen assorted murders? A quiz? A revue?” …show more content…

The automated police car takes Leonard for exhibiting “Regressive Tendencies,” (4). Leonard Mead’s job was a writer, one of the most thought-provoking and respected jobs throughout history. The ability to create original thought is what separates humans from robots. Yet, in Leonard’s society, it is decided by an automated car that Leonard Mead, a representation of humanity, is “regressive.” The car values the progress that has been made far more than the past or tradition. The automated police has a significant role because Bradbury is hinting that one day a society will function without the presence of humanity. Leonard , “...the people sat like the dead, the gray or multicolored lights touching their faces, but never really touching them” (3). Through the use of the phrase, “...never really touching them,” Bradbury emphasizes that humans and technology do not connect. The two are antithetical because humans are organic matter with the ability of thought whereas technology is man-made and dependent. Also, humans are constantly talking through the screens of their phones rather than face to face. The effect of technology may not always be progression. The citizens in the technology-based society are not independent. Leonard Mead is targeted by the police because those brainwashed by television are less susceptible to

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