E-learning is becoming increasingly prevalent in educational institutions throughout the world. There is a growing awareness of the need to assess the impact of this new type of learning on the educational system and on the students who participate in these programs. In May 2008, following 4 years of research, iClass held a conference to discuss their conclusions and work on future directions. In the opening panel, several leading scholars analyzed the negative impact computers and the Internet may have on learners. In his role as a commentator on this panel, the author raised a wider challenge--that of the relationship between technology and society. In the article below, he describes his ideas.