Computers tend to separate us from each other - Mum's on the laptop, Dad's on the iPad, teenagers are on Facebook, toddlers are on the DS, and so on.

The quote "Computers tend to separate us from each other - Mum's on the laptop, Dad's on the iPad, teenagers are on Facebook, toddlers are on the DS, and so on" by Tom Hodgkinson reflects his critical perspective on the impact of technology on human relationships. Hodgkinson, a writer and advocate for a simpler, more traditional lifestyle, is pointing out how modern computers and devices have led to individuals in a household becoming more isolated from each other. Rather than engaging in face-to-face interaction, each person is absorbed in their own screen, which, according to Hodgkinson, diminishes the quality of human connection.

The humor in this quote comes from the way Hodgkinson lists off the various ways each family member is absorbed in their own technology, from the laptop and iPad to Facebook and the DS (a gaming device). The variety of devices mentioned highlights how pervasive technology has become in everyday life, and how it has created an environment where people, even within the same household, can be physically present but mentally distant. Hodgkinson is emphasizing the irony that these devices, which were meant to connect us, often have the opposite effect.

The origin of this quote lies in Hodgkinson's broader critique of modern life and consumerism. As a proponent of a simpler, less digitally connected lifestyle, he frequently critiques how technology has altered how we relate to one another. In this quote, he illustrates the negative impact of technology on family dynamics, where the very devices that were intended to make communication easier now serve to fragment and isolate individuals.

Ultimately, Hodgkinson's quote serves as a critique of the overuse of technology in our daily lives, particularly in the context of family interactions. While computers and devices offer many benefits, they also come with the potential to weaken personal relationships by fostering a sense of isolation. Hodgkinson is calling for a balance, reminding us that the value of face-to-face communication and human connection should not be overshadowed by the constant presence of digital technology.