FarmVille Founder on Tech & Human Connection

The Human Side of Social Gaming

With over 60 million active users, FarmVille remains one of Facebook's most popular social games. But its co-creator Eric Schiermeyer (Zynga co-founder) revealed a surprising perspective at Wisdom 2.0 2011:

"I don't really love technology. I love people."

This statement sparked a key debate about:
- How social media platforms facilitate human interaction
- Whether technology enhances or distracts from meaningful connections

Technology as a Tool for Human Needs

Schiermeyer clarified his position with powerful analogies:

1. Tech as plumbing: "We expect good pipes, but don't blame plumbers for what flows through them"
2. User-centered design: Successful companies like Apple excel by deeply understanding human desires
3. Mindful innovation: Technology should solve real problems, not create distractions

The Wisdom 2.0 Perspective on Digital Balance

The conference highlighted two crucial insights about technology and mindfulness:

• Positive impacts:

  • Enables global movements (like Arab Spring via Twitter)
  • Connects communities (as seen in social gaming)

• Potential pitfalls:

  • Can create distraction from present moments
  • May divert focus from life priorities

Cultivating Mindful Technology Use

Schiermeyer advocates for:

• Cultural shifts toward less stressful digital habits
• Wisdom practices to balance innovation with wellbeing
• Human-centered design in all technologies

"Mindfulness includes being innovative at every level - not just with tools, but in how we build our world." - Eric Schiermeyer

Explore More on Mindful Technology

• The Digital World Connects (related reading)
• Wisdom 2.0 Conference (upcoming events)

Photo credit: Mari Smith/Flickr