Is modern technology really anti-social? Does it get in the way of real, old-fashioned conversation? What do you think and are your experiences.

I agree, Robbinn, you have to find a balance. I too could not now be without my ipad, but I very mush like a good ol' conversation too with family and friends. Overall, I suppose we get more from the technology than that which we may lose. I just hate the fact that for a lot of people it is an extension of their being, like losing a leg or arm if they misplace the item........ more so with the younger folk. We have got to "go with it" in this fast moving and ever changing world....Enjoy your ipad!

I think we have to be very careful with all this 'new' technology. I love my iPad, iPhone, etc and they are broadening my horizon tremendously. My husband and I started Geocaching this summer and the iPhone and iPad are wonderful tools taking us to places we would never have discovered. On long walks/cycle rides I can find out exactly where we are and the easiest route back. I can do my banking wherever I am with either my iPhone or my iPad; I can read a book; order train tickets etc etc.
I do believe there are times and places to use them and also to NOT use them. Good conversation cannot be beaten. No phone or iPad anywhere near the dining table; when friends call everything is put down or turned off; when we want to have a chat or just a comfortable time together. When my husband wants to watch something on television which I don't particularly like, then my iPad comes into its own. I can be in the same room as him and watch something else (using earphones) so we are together but I don't have to watch football, which I unfortunately dislike.
My luxury is first-thing in the morning with a cup of hot lemon reading the newspapers on my iPad. Both my husband and I like our 'own' time first thing in the mornings so this works well. Last thing at night, I usually play a few hands of cards - again on my iPad - whilst my husband is downstairs listening to his jazz which he loves to do last thing at night. The social media sites keep my friends and family much nearer even though some are a long way away.
I believe the important thing is to have quality time together and use the new technology as and when suitable. I for one, would hate to be without it.

Edited to add: I do believe, however, that the younger generation do seem far too attached to their phones and that includes my own family. There is nothing more annoying than having a lovely chat with family members when you get the 'oooh I must reply to this'.....

I think you make a very good point Mo! I sometimes feel that one of our daughters thinks her phone is the most important thing in her life! It will be interesting to see what others think http://www.silversurfers.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_wink.gif" alt=";)" class="spSmiley" />