What does internet-everywhere mean to human culture?

When  you have the internet in your pocket, you have little reason to ask friends, associates and random strangers for helpful information -- instead you just pull Google or Wikipedia out of your jeans.

And this is probably a rational decision.

But it does value ephemeral screen images more highly than real, breathing people, and this seems unfortunate.

Of course this started with the first portable written material -- it became possible to carry wisdom and knowledge around with you instead of needing to seek out advice from local elders and experts.

It is hard to argue that this is a Bad Thing. It got us out of the caves.

But it is worth remembering that for every fact in Wikipedia, there are countless smidgens of information that have never been immortalized on the Web at all.

So perhaps the next time you are in a strange place, and are reveling in your ability to GPS right on by the gas-station or roadside stand where you might have previously stopped for directions, consider stopping anyway. Buy an apple or a candy bar. Ask about where you are going. Ask about local oddities and attractions.

If it turns out to be interesting, you could post it on Wikipedia.