The Hidden Toll of Information Overload
Information overload has become a catalyst for a number of structural problems that significantly affect a person’s adaptation and quality of life. First, an excessive amount of information leads to a decline in the quality of thought processes. As noted in one source, “Excessively abundant, uncontrolled information develops inferior mechanical memory but suppresses creative power and energy. A person continuously receiving an abundance of nourishment becomes a shapeless heap of fat that finds it hard to move and breathe...,” indicating a loss of the ability to critically analyze and creatively approach problems—an ability essential for effective adaptation (source: link txt).Secondly, information overload depletes mental defense mechanisms. This is reflected in the observation that “Thought becomes superficial, and language — overly talkative. The protective forces of the psyche become exhausted, unable to cope with the avalanche of impressions.
Where is the space for silence, for heartfelt prayer?” Such a state contributes to a loss of depth in perception and an impaired ability to make sense of events, which in turn hinders adaptation to changing external conditions (source: link txt).Thirdly, one cannot overlook the influence of information overload on the dynamics of systems overall. According to one document, “Under a certain degree of stress, the informational support of a system will not be able, through negative feedback, to compensate for deviations determined by positive feedback.” This means that when informational flows are excessive, the usual mechanisms for correcting and balancing a system cease to function effectively, potentially leading to the degradation of both individual aspects of life and the broader social environment (source: link txt).Finally, the impact of information overload is also evident in changes to the rhythm and structure of life, as seen in the use of computer technologies. For instance, prolonged computer use leads to behavioral changes, the simplification of speech patterns, and even the emergence of specific neuroses, all of which negatively affect a person’s psychological state and ability to adapt to the external environment (source: link txt).Thus, information overload results in the weakening of creative resources, the deterioration of thought quality, and the depletion of psychological defenses, thereby complicating individuals’ adaptation to the rapid changes of the modern world and affecting their overall quality of life.