Author Description

Are we thriving in the digital age, or simply surviving it? Never before have human beings faced such an overwhelming torrent of information, opinions, and noise. In a world shaped by social media, 24-hour news cycles, algorithmic manipulation, and constant connectivity, clarity feels rare, trust is fractured, and thoughtful living has become a daily challenge. In Survival in the 21st Century, Larry G. Patten — veteran educator, public broadcasting leader, and pioneer in the evolution of information technology — offers a roadmap for navigating this complex landscape. Drawing on decades of experience in media, education, and leadership, Patten explores how we arrived at this critical moment and, more importantly, how we can find our way through it. Far from another book sounding the alarm about technology’s dangers, Survival in the 21st Century is a steady, solutions-oriented guide for reclaiming personal agency, restoring balance, and living thoughtfully in an age that often demands reaction over reflection. Inside, you’ll discover: Why trust in media, education, and institutions has eroded How labels, fear, and certainty have divided society The hidden risks of overstimulation and constant connectivity How AI, automation, and emerging technologies are reshaping our lives Practical strategies to resist manipulation, engage meaningfully, and apply common sense in a fast-moving world Informed, clear-eyed, and ultimately hopeful, Survival in the 21st Century challenges us not to reject modern life, but to meet it with wisdom and discernment. The future will not be defined by machines or media, but by the choices we make about them — and about ourselves. Thoughtful living is still possible. The journey begins with slowing down, stepping back, and choosing to lead, rather than be led.