A similar sentiment is expressed by Neil Postman in "Amusing ourselves to death". He closely examines the impact of a visual medium on communication, as opposed

A similar sentiment is expressed by Neil Postman in "Amusing ourselves to death". He closely examines the impact of a visual medium on communication, as opposed to written work, and how it affects the messages that we can communicate. Ultimately the messages and ideas that we communicate shape our culture. The internet wasn't big at the time of the writing, but he is very insightful as to what it means for out communication. Side note: the types of conversation that take place on HN are not surprising when you take into account the lack of photos and emoji as opposed to say FB that has "like" features.