Understanding Author's Purpose in a Technology Critique

In the passage below, the author discusses the impact of technology on interpersonal communication.

As smartphones and social media dominate our daily interactions, the quality of our conversations seems to diminish. While these platforms connect us with friends and family globally, they simultaneously warp our understanding of what genuine interaction entails. The immediacy of text messages and social posts completes for attention with the subtleties of face-to-face dialogue. In their haste to share thoughts, many forfeit the deeper meanings conveyed through personal exchanges.

This phenomenon raises a pivotal question: are we losing the art of conversation? The answer appears to be nuanced. On one hand, digital communication has broadened our networks and increased accessibility. Yet, the erosion of in-depth discussions may lead to a society that struggles with empathy and understanding. Thus, the overarching purpose of technology is not merely to connect us, but to challenge us to maintain the essence of human interaction.