I hear you John.
If I had my choice of computers or humans at this point, I would go with a computer. The calculations and precautions seem like they would be more apt to keep people safe.
The story caught my attention because it sounded a thought that had been brewing in mind. We must be wary of trusting ourselves completely to the emerging technologies.
Amen to that - but your point is well-taken - it's so easy to be caught up in virtual reality, cocooned and insulated, and literally lose track of time and your surroundings. As a writer you know how it happens - switching back and forth between sites, connecting data and before you know it an entire evening has disappeared
I certainly know that feeling. Today was like that for me.
One of the balances I work on every day is finding physical books to read mixed with all the articles I read from my devices.
That cocoon closes in faster than we realize.
it does :)