Super Short Summary

In Alone Together, Sherry Turkle examines the impact of technology on human relationships, focusing first on how people, particularly children, interact with robots like ELIZA, Tamagotchi, Furby, AIBO, My Real Baby, Cog, and Kismet, forming emotional bonds and seeing these robots as companions. The second half of the book delves into the effects of social media and virtual worlds like chatrooms, Facebook, World of Warcraft, and Second Life, arguing that while these platforms offer convenient connections, they can also lead to feelings of isolation and pressure to constantly be available and curate one's online persona. Note: The book discusses challenges faced by young people in relation to privacy and emotional expression.