As a programmer I come across various obstacles on a daily basis and I have become really dependent on Google to help me overcome them. The first thing I do when I struggle with something is run to Google screaming and shouting… ultimately begging for an answer to my problem.

Today the reality hit me - I realised that instead of logically thinking about the problem and trying to figure out a solution I tend to choose the easy way out by Googling for the answer.  Now before anyone points the "Shame on you!" finger at me, I would like to explain why I, and I'm sure most people, find it necessary to turn to Google for help.

The answer is simple: Time. Yes, time or lack of it, is the biggest culprit here. With deadlines to be met and our quest to do things in as little time as possible, there is sometimes simply no time to sit and figure out solutions.

We live in a society where time = money = everything else, and where quick and easy solutions have become as convenient as McDonalds. If something will solve your problem you tend to grab on to it as if it is your only hope and just use it.

On the flip side - sometimes while reading through forums I encounter someone who asks a question that even a brain dead monkey knows you can find the answer to on Google. I take pride in the fact that at least I have learnt to use Google to find my answers, instead of asking these embarrassingly simple questions all the time.

So, is Google causing a brain drain? I would have to say no - no more than calculators did, at least. Today most people ignore the fact that they have a brain that is capable of basic calculations and pull out their pocket calculators instead. I foresee people pulling a small device out of their pockets and Googling for everyday solutions to problems in the not so distant future.