Has the English language degenerated, and what can we do about it?

As technology and science have advanced and some of mankind has reaped the rewards through improved standards of living in the last century, other areas such as the english language, seem to have taken a downturn. For example, slang language has now been added to most dictionaries, and most people no longer take the time to find the appropriate word or phrase to describe what they want to say, but turn to slang phrases instead.

What is your position on this: Do you think it reflects a natural evolution of our (English-speaking) society to turn from improving our dialogue to focus on other areas of our life? Is technology (and the benefits it reaps) to blame? Or should we consider this another evolution and just enjoy the ride, so to speak? If so, why do we continue to read novels and books by eminent writing scholars of old i.e. Hemmingway, Fitzgerald, etc.? All opinions are welcome, especially those who take pride in their verbage.