Read the following excerpt from an essay discussing the impact of technology on modern communication:

"In our relentless pursuit of efficiency, we have sacrificed the nuances of face-to-face communication. The glow of a screen replaces the warmth of a smile, and a notification chimes in place of genuine laughter. This shift raises critical questions: are we truly connected, or merely in proximity? As we navigate through this digital landscape, we must confront the disconcerting reality that our voices, though amplified by technology, are often shrouded in a silence we fail to recognize."

What is the predominant tone of the passage, and how does the author's style contribute to that tone?