Societal Shifting (part 2)

I personally believe that things will never be quite the same again after this pandemic. Many of the changes we will experience will probably be met with frustration, but hopefully we'll also be understanding, as we've been facing the sobering reality of seeing how fast a dangerous infectious disease can spread. I suspect we will see micro and macro changes in our society that may persist or even become a permanent part of our culture from here onward. One change that is debatable, however, is how we proceed with our use of online meetings, both for business and schooling. Science fiction has long predicted that learning will someday no longer be conducted through classrooms, but instead through monitored video meetings from our own homes. Meeting online means far less driving, which removes the risk of automobile accidents and lessens the cost of filling the gas tank and performing vehicle maintenance. Less driving also means less polution, so it is conceivable that some businesses or schools will reduce the requirements of meeting in person. However, our society is one that is dominated by extroverts, and the need for human interaction may supersede everything as it has before. As a borderline introvert myself, I know that I'd prefer to continue with online business rather than resume my long commutes to D.C. during the week!