Schmidt '76 warns of technology's influence

Google CEO and chairman, Eric Schmidt ’76, cautioned that increased use of electronic media may reduce the “deep reading” ability of today’s youth, according to the Agence France-Presse.

Schmidt, who was speaking at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, explained that using electronic mobile devices has lessened the time people spend reading traditional print media. As a result, people may fail to develop strong reading and comprehension skills. Schmidt noted, however, that video games may enhance strategy and reasoning skills.

Later in his talk, Schmidt addressed security in the internet age. He explained that he feels the inter-connectedness of the internet may reduce personal security.

Google itself has recently dealt with security concerns as several internet attacks from China prompted the company to threaten to withdraw from China. While Google has decided to continue operating in China for the time being, Schmidt told The Washington Post he hoped it would be “on somewhat different terms.”

Still hoping to encourage innovations in technology, Schmidt established the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Transformative Technology Fund at the University last October. Schmidt earned his undergraduate degree at the University in electrical engineering and served as a trustee from 2004 to 2008.