Engage!

I am currently reading the book "Engage" by Brian Solis which explores the use of new media in building success in brands and businesses. I highly recommend the book for anyone interested in learning more about the changing landscape of social media and the impact on marketing and PR. One quote in particular I found very fascinating and wanted to share:

"To pay continuous partial attention is to pay partial attention - continuously. It is motivated by a desire to be a live node on the network...To be busy, to be connected, to be alive, to be recognized, and to matter. We pay continuous partial attention in an effort not to miss anything. It is an always-on, anywhere, anytime, anyplace behavior that involves an artificial sense of constant crisis." (Linda Stone, page 113-114.)

 My question is - has social media, technology and all of the constant communication between networks of people built in an "artificial sense of constant crisis" within all of us? Do you feel you are constantly seeking new information and conversation so as to not miss anything? I am curious to hear your thoughts.