The Fear of Baud

Three out of five Americans describe themselves as resistant or hesitant toward technology, according to a survey conducted by MCI and Orange-based psychologist Michelle M. Weil.

Weil, who says she specializes in treating “techno-phobes,” said that the results largely reflect outdated opinions about technology.

“Many adults formed their attitudes about technology more than a decade ago, when technology was difficult to use,” she said. “Techno-phobes are unaware that technology has become easier to use, more affordable and more relevant to everyday living.”

Despite the widespread skepticism of technology, more than one-third of the 1,000 respondents said they were likely to use new technologies by the year 2000. In a follow-up question, many said they would do so because they had to for business purposes or to keep in touch with family.

The survey was conducted in February and sponsored by MCI, a telecommunications giant based in Washington.

Greg Miller covers high technology for The Times. He can be reached at (714) 966-7830 and at greg.miller@latimes.com.