"Technoism" strikes when buying presents.

• Position: Science & Technology - Brief article

Although the newest electronics and technological gadgets are among the most popular holiday gifts each year, they may not be the best presents, maintains Beverly J. Davis, an associate professor of organizational leadership and supervision at Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind., and author of Technoism: At the Crossroads of Society and Technology. She warns that the holidays are a prime time to be wary of falling victim to what she calls "technoism," and blindly purchasing each new technology.

Davis defines technoism as the tendency to purchase or use new technological devices impulsively--instead of based on need---out of a fear of being labeled old-fashioned. This time of year, technoism can run rampant as companies unveil new products for the holiday season and young people clamor for the latest, trendiest gadgets.

"Ask yourself, is this newest video game system or MP3 player worth the several hundred dollars to upgrade from what you...