Something that is usually not touched upon in these discussion:
The concept of self-reliance.
And with good reason - a GPS is a tool, not a life-style choice. Just like a watch, a sextant, shoes, etc. Even trekking poles.
To use your line of reasoning using anything more than the stars, sun and moon to navigate suggests lack of self-reliance.
To be critical of others who use a GPS is as silly as being critical of a carpenter using a nail gun instead of a stone axe. Use the best tool at hand, and use it to help accomplish the goal.
Kevin, was I being critical of using technology? Read again. I am critical of witless
sole reliance upon technology, ESPECIALLY when a person has not mastered the technology when one's life may depend upon it.
A carpenter who is expert with her tools is a craftsperson to be respected. One who is not does not deserve the title.
I always liked this variation of the classic:
" This is my ice axe. There are many like it, but this one is mine. My ice axe is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. My ice axe, without me, is useless. Without my ice axe, I am useless."
