is society dependent on technology essay

Are We too Dependent on Technology?

Do we rely on technology too much? Read this essay and learn whether people have become overly dependent on technology in the modern world.

Introduction

How dependent are we on technology, dependence on technology leads to less thinking, dependence on technology leads to less meaningful communication, adverse effects on children dependent on technology, positive effects of technology.

“Are we too dependent on technology?” is a popular question for debate. Many think that people’s dependence on technology is becoming too much. Others believe that humans are not dependent on technology and that reliance on automation has mostly positive effects. This dependence on technology essay aims to answer whether people have become overly dependent on technology.

Technology is a positive thing. The constant advancement in technology means that the execution of duties is becoming easier. Notably, improvements in the use of technology in the medical field have enabled doctors to save more lives.

Similarly, the automation of key processes at the workplace implies that the work environment is not only safer, but productivity is also higher. In fact, it is through technology that parents can stay in touch with their young ones studying abroad. People are now globally connected as a result of using technology. As it is, every action people have to carry out is dependent on technology.

However, the use of technology is raising concerns. First, technology has increased entertainment platforms among particular demographic groups, especially the youths who are constantly hooked on their gadgets for a long time.

Further, the over-reliance on technology is draining the healthy habits that people once used to have, leading to numerous health issues. Under this premise, I concur that people have become overly dependent on technology.

First, the use of technology implies that people are doing less thinking daily. One study has shown that constant use of the brain hinders the development of diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia in old age. In fact, proper brain development commences during early childhood when children engage in games like puzzles. Unfortunately, people in this generation work their brains less than required (Anderson and Rainie 2).

Reasons Why People Have Become Overly Dependent on Technology

In fact, people take out their calculators even for the simplest of calculations. Juggling one’s memory to remember a friend’s or relative’s number is a thing of the past. People no longer do all the thinking when there are phones with the ability to store contacts. As a result, people’s mental ability is reduced significantly, making them prone to dementia and memory loss as they age.

However, the problem is not the technology; the problem is how people use the technology. Technology is meant to aid processes, increase efficiency as well as productivity, and make life easier. However, people exploit technology by applying it even in simple tasks (Anderson and Rainie 5).

If technology would be applied as a tool other than a means of escaping reality, then its contribution to society would be seen and appreciated. However, people who sit and play video games all day make technology appear like a bad influence, yet some people play these games for relaxation and do productive jobs.

Secondly, through the influence of technology, people have stopped having quality communication with each other. Technology has invaded every aspect of life, making it hard for people to have meaningful conversations.

Notably, technology seems so convenient that word of mouth looks pretty unnecessary. For example, two friends in the same room will likely message each other than directly speak to one another. Most people have taken up the use of gadgets like iPhones and iPads, thereby spending a lot of their time on social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook.

It means that even though people would initially meet and greet, it is no longer possible as they can communicate over the Internet, consequently limiting physical contact. Such an over-reliance on technology implies that most meaningful conversations between people are lost, leading to poor family bonding (Saidam 4).

Nevertheless, reliance on technology is essential in this digital age. The world has evolved into a digital platform, where anybody that has not joined the digital world is left behind on new developments.

Essentially, technology makes communication among people easier and can impact many people at a go without having to do bulk communication. Take, for example, a company doing job advertisements over the Internet. The adverts will likely be spotted and gain more audiences than when placed in a newspaper.

The primary reason for this phenomenon is that the world has evolved into a digital age, where people are slowly getting away from traditional means of communication. Further, social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter save people the costs and inconveniences of traveling many miles to communicate, while it is possible to do so online.

The belief that technology is an essential application camouflages the various dangers associated with its use. It is believed that one way to stay afloat in the world today is keeping with trends of technological advancements and being part of the group. This way, one is kept updated and aware of what is happening worldwide.

Therefore, there is a need to join social sites like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. One downside of operating these sites is requiring personal information before activating an account. Further, one has to link up with their friends and give personal details like their date of birth and location, among others. While adults may exercise dissemination of such information with caution, youths may not.

Thus, it is easier for anyone to get vital information about individuals, stalk them, and manipulate the information for their benefit. Besides, sharing such information should be a private business and not public, as everyone can gain access to you from wherever they are located. Notably, privacy is an essential element of life that is highly violated using technology.

The general population’s health is deteriorating with the advent of technology and the technological age. First, technology is applied for many purposes, even for the simplest tasks. Among the tasks are simple mathematical calculations that are manually feasible.

However, people choose to use their gadgets even when unnecessary because they do not want to leave their comfort zones. Not very long ago, children used to enjoy outdoor games. They would go around playing with other children in their community and, in the process, boost their stamina and immunity. Such interactions exposed the children to social life and various challenges like solving conflicts.

As a result, these children were smart in life and grew up as better people. It is not the case nowadays; the trend is that young children are exposed to games like PlayStation, gamepads, and joysticks rather than communal games. In effect, the children grow up with low self-esteem and communication problems as they are not used to being around people (Anderson and Rainie 2).

Further, their thinking is limited to themselves, meaning they grow up with selfishness, an inability to make friends, and poor behavioral characteristics.

Despite the negative impact of technology today, its contribution to making life easier and more convenient, as well as its simplicity to use, implies that the role of technology is crucial. One useful technological gadget is the cell phone. About 82% of the United States population is estimated to have a cell phone (Campbell 3).

Such ownership implies ease of access to information and convenience in communication. Notably, pressing just a single button on the cell phone would generate a lot of helpful information for the user. For instance, using smartphones means that people can improve their linguistic abilities and ease of messaging, which are now a big part of how people communicate.

On the other hand, all these developments in the world of technology imply that human beings are losing their culture and reality with the world. Nowadays, it seems like people cannot communicate and exist with all the available gadgets, as their use has been extended from official to private. For instance, the use of computers at the office makes work easier.

However, should all the data on official documents be lost in these computers, the companies cannot operate. Secondly, people are so used to communicating through the Internet and over the phones that should these gadgets not exist anymore, they would have difficulty communicating or maintaining touch with each other (Saidam 5).

As it is, individuals have made it seem like life would end should these gadgets be absent. On the contrary, people in previous generations would communicate and maintain constant touch with each other before the gadgets were developed.

While people would use their thoughts, get into discussions, and convene to solve pertinent issues, nowadays, people surf answers to every need. The dependency on computers has made people highly vulnerable to losing their identity (Saidam 5).

Culturally, people lose track of who they are and what is acceptable for them. A lot of cultural dilution occurs with the use of technology, like the Internet. Ideally, people start to adopt what they see online and practice it in their daily lives (Anderson and Rainie 5).

For instance, some people tend to envy the Western ways of doing things more than their traditional outlook on life. Ultimately, individuals act and behave the same with the proliferation of values.

Despite the convenience created by technology, people have become too dependent on technology. Everyday life activities are managed through technological gadgets and applications. People now rely on alarms to wake up. Phones are used to check the time and for constant communication throughout the day.

Once people get to the office, they log into emails, respond to them, and later log onto social networking sites, where they spend the better part of the day. Ideally, individuals check up on their friends and families through instant messaging on Facebook.

Once they know they are fine, they hardly create time to visit them. In fact, the type of communication between families and friends is diluted to fit social circles. Back at home, children hardly go out to play because they are constantly engrossed in their play stations.

The consequence is that the children have poor social skills, perform poorly in school, and have limited problem-solving skills. People hardly put their brains to the task because they mainly rely on technology to carry out simple arithmetic functions. Individuals are growing old and suffering from memory problems, all because they exploit the application of technology and become over-reliant on technology.

Works Cited

Anderson, Janna, and Lee Rainie. Millennials will Benefit and Suffer Due to their Hyperconnected Lives . Washington DC: Pew Research Center, 2012. Print.

Campbell, Marilyn A. “The Impact of the Mobile Phone on Young People’s Social Life.” Social Change in the 21st Century Conference , QUT Carseldine, Brisbane, 2005. Print.

Saidam, Sabri M. On Route to an E Society: Human Dependence on Technology and Adaptation Needs . 2004. Web.

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Is Society Too Dependent On Technology? 10 Shocking Facts

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: May 26, 2020

Is Society Too Dependent On Technology?

Technology plays a major role in our lives, and most of us may find it hard to remember a time when phones, computers, tablets, and other devices weren’t a part of everyday life. While technology certainly makes life easier and more convenient, many wonder whether or not our society is too dependent on technology.

Fact #1: According to a study by Penn State , 77% said that society as a whole relied too much on technology to succeed.

So, is society too dependent on technology? There are even more shocking facts out there to prove it.

Is Society Too Dependent On Computers/Phones?

Technology, of course, has many innumerable benefits. But this dependency on phones and computers has impacted humans negatively, too.

First and foremost, it has led users to be completely engrossed in their devices. In fact, there is even a term to describe this: “nomophobia” (no-mobile-phone-phobia) which is when a person has an actual fear of losing or being away from their phone.

Fact #2: According to Trendhunter , 66% of the population suffers from nomophobia today.

What Are The Effects Of Technology?

What does this addiction to technology do to us? Well, even if we are not addicted, technology can have an impact on our mental, physical, and emotional health and wellbeing. From causing stiff necks to heightened anxiety, technology has seeped through all aspects of our lives. And, if not used moderately, technology can really harm us, despite all its benefits — ultimately, by making us too dependent on it.

The Effects Of Technology On Entertainment

At the beginning of the 20th century, there were many ways that people could be entertained, which usually involved interacting with others without a device between them. For instance, people could attend dances, live events, amusement parks, or simply play a game of stickball with their friends from the neighborhood.

Though we still do these activities for entertainment, it’s much less so than before. The way we entertain ourselves these days has changed dramatically since phones, computers, and similar technologies have been interwoven into our lives.

Fact #3: The type of entertainment we get from technology today is known as “passive” entertainment. This could be anything from binge-watching a show on Netflix to listening to a podcast. It does not require much effort. Passive entertainment, or passive leisure, is different from active entertainment or active leisure, which involves the exertion of physical or mental energy.

The Effects Of Technology On How We Communicate

Technology has had an effect on how we communicate. Back in the day, people had to communicate primarily by talking to each other in person. Over time, technology gave us the unique ability to communicate with people who were far away from us, whether it was by making a phone call, sending an email, or shooting off a text.

Now, with a click of a button, we can talk to anyone in the world, any time of day — albeit with a few exceptions (being in a place without Internet or phone service). This may be good in theory, but the basic principles of healthy communication have been broken down. Think about it: has someone ever dumped you via a text message?

The Social Effect Of Technology

There’s no denying the fact that technology has made it easy for us to talk to our friends instantaneously. But, at the same time, many of us have forgotten how to interact with others without the devices between us. Or, they are able to use the device as a cover-up.

For example, technology has led to an increase in instances like cyberbullying, which is one of the many dangers of technology among young people.

Fact #4: According to DoSomething.org , about 37% of young people between the ages of 12 and 17 have been bullied online. 30% have had it happen more than once.

The Effects Of Technology On The Way We Travel

Technology has strongly impacted the way we travel. Today, we are able to find where we are going much more efficiently. This started with inventions like trains, automobiles, and planes. And, centuries later, we have taken this light years further by utilizing the internet and phone apps to make travel easier and more accessible.

Fact #5: In 2019, more than 37 million Americans traveled overseas . In 2002, less than twenty years prior, that number was 23 million. There’s no question that this can be largely attributed to advancements in technology, making travel more affordable and accessible.

However, this has brought humans further away from our hunter-gatherer roots; most of us would have a hard time surviving or even getting around in a foreign place without access to technology. Technology makes it easier for people to travel who otherwise wouldn’t feel confident doing so, but there’s no denying that it’s made us have more dependence on technology.

The Effects Of Technology On How We Research

A long time ago, people would get their information by doing the research themselves, usually with the help of books, a librarian, interviewing experts, or conducting experiments themselves. This could be a rather long process, and you may never come across the answer you’re looking for.

Nowadays, you can quickly type the question you have into a search engine and find your answer. Yet, there is a downside. With the easy access to information, there’s often a lot of misinformation out there, too. Some of it isn’t even written by humans.

Fact #6: According to writer Max Read of NYMag , “…less than 60 percent of web traffic is human; some years, according to some researchers, a healthy majority of it is bot.”

Image by Comfreak from Pixabay

Knowing the signs: how to tell if you’re too dependent on technology.

There’s nothing wrong with using technology to make life easier and more convenient. It’s when we become too dependent on it that we need to take a step back and re-evaluate our reliance on technology.

If you’re wondering whether or not you’re too dependent on technology, ask yourself if these statements apply to your life:

• Nothing can be done without Internet access. If you lose Internet access, you’re done working for the day.
• You lose track of time when you’re online.
• You use calculators for simple calculations.
• You feel anxious without connection.
• You are addicted to your mobile phone and/or you allow machines to dictate your responses/behaviors.
• You feel buyer’s remorse everytime you buy a new device and/or you obsess over the latest gadgets.
• You have a hard time disconnecting and focusing on the present. You find you’re not living in the present and often record moments instead of appreciating them.
• You don’t have phone numbers and/or addresses memorized.
• You find it difficult to sleep.
• You don’t go out enough; socialization takes place on your phone.
• You haven’t been creative in a while.
• You’re not able to have important and serious conversations in person.
• It’s been a while since you’ve shopped at a brick-and-mortar store.
• You feel like something’s missing when you don’t have your phone.
• You have little concern for your privacy.

Most of us probably will have answered “yes” to at least a few of these statements. But, if you’ve answered yes to a majority of them, then it may be time to start addressing your reliance on technology.

The Dangers Of Technology Dependence

If you think you are too dependent on technology but wondering why technology is bad for society, well, this dependence can be dangerous. Technology can impact us physically, mentally, and emotionally if we are not careful. It can also be harmful to others. Here’s how.

1. Anxiety And Depression

Technology dependence has been linked to anxiety and depression . Whether this comes from the fact that we are withdrawn from others, the pressures from social media , the rise of cyber bullying, or the bright phone screen that is detrimental to our sleep, all of this is taking a toll on our mental health .

Fact #7: According to a study by the University of Missouri , “We found that if Facebook users experience envy of the activities and lifestyles of their friends on Facebook, they are much more likely to report feelings of depression,” said Margaret Duffy, a professor and chair of strategic communication.

2. Impatience

Technology has made us much more impatient than ever before. Because people can be available and accessible at all times, this has led us to believe that people should be accessible and available at all times. Most of us may get frustrated when someone does not answer their phone right away, or if we see that someone has seen a message but has not yet responded. For many, many years, hearing back from someone could take a long time; it was the norm.

Another way that our dependence on technology is dangerous is because it can impact our memory and the happy emotions that come with memory. Since technology has given us the ability to use memory cards on a device to store our information, we have not been accessing our brain’s memory as much as we are capable of doing.

Fact #8: A scientific article entitled “ The Brain In Your Pocket ” states that “Across three studies, we find that those who think more intuitively and less analytically when given reasoning problems were more likely to rely on their smartphones (i.e., extended mind) for information in their everyday lives.”

4. Addiction

Technology has increased the rate of technological addiction, which is characterized as the uncontrollable urge to constantly and consistently use technological devices or the programs, apps, and platforms that come with them. Technological addiction is more common among teenagers, but children and adults are seeing the effects as well.

Fact #9: According to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation , “Researchers have found evidence that people who overuse technology may develop similar brain chemistry and neural patterning to those who are addicted to substances.” This can cause or worsen anxiety, depression, and even play a role in suicide in extreme cases.

5. Skill Replacement

Technology gives us the opportunity to learn new skills no matter where we are located. People can start businesses from scratch that run entirely online. However, this quick access to skills can present the same problem as with memorization. Because we turn to our devices for a particular skill-set (for instance, using a water intake app instead of knowing how much water we should be drinking on our own), it can impact our natural skill attainment abilities.

Image by Mediamodifier from Pixabay

The role of technological dependence on advancement and innovation.

So, technology helps us advance as a society, but are all the dangers of being dependent on technology actually hindering us and pushing us backwards? Many experts think so .

The more we become attached to certain devices and dependent on types of technology, the more we’ll work to improve those particular devices (while simultaneously losing our abilities to socialize, memorize, find solutions, and learn skills) and the less we’ll have the focus, desire, and ability to invent something new. Therefore, we need to reduce our dependence on technology if we want to keep innovating and bringing new ideas to fruition in the future.

Finding The Balance Of Technology And Society

Technology has so many advantages and benefits for society, and it’s important for us to not lose sight of that as we critique the problems with relying on it too much. Like with anything, moderation is a good way to not become too dependent. To mitigate this, we need to find a healthy balance between technology and society. This could mean limiting the amount of time you spend on your phone, to giving yourself an opportunity to find the answer to a problem without immediately searching for it online.

Is society too dependent on technology? Technology is a great resource in the classroom, and it can help us obtain the skills we need for a successful career. But, this must come in combination with learning how to navigate the requirements of academia and a future profession without completely relying on technology.

Fact #10: At University of the People, you can start earning your degree online and completely tuition-free — one of the great benefits of our program and technology — and find that balance on your own. Check out UoPeople’s degree programs today!

At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone.

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Essay on How Dependent Are We On Technology

Students are often asked to write an essay on How Dependent Are We On Technology in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

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100 Words Essay on How Dependent Are We On Technology

Everyday life.

We use technology a lot in our daily lives. When we wake up, we often check our phones. We use cars and buses that need technology to work. At school, teachers use computers to teach us. Even making a simple phone call needs technology. Without it, we would have to find new ways to do these things.

Work and Business

Health and medicine.

Doctors use technology to check our health and treat us. Machines can see inside our bodies and help fix broken bones. Some people need technology to walk or see better. Without these, staying healthy would be harder.

Entertainment

For fun, we often watch TV, play video games, or use the internet. These all need technology. Without it, we would play more outside or read books to entertain ourselves.

250 Words Essay on How Dependent Are We On Technology

Our life with technology.

We use technology a lot in our daily lives. From the moment we wake up, we might use an alarm on our phone. During the day, we use cars, buses, or trains, which are all kinds of technology, to go places. At school, teachers use computers to teach us new things. Even when we come home, we use microwaves to heat our food and watch TV to relax.

Technology in Communication

Talking to friends and family is much easier with technology. We use our phones to send messages, make calls, and even see each other through video. Without technology, we would have to write letters and wait a long time to hear back from someone far away.

Learning with Technology

Schools use technology to help us learn better. We look for information on the internet for our homework. Teachers show us videos and presentations to make lessons more interesting. We also use apps for studying and practicing math or reading.

Technology at Home

At home, we depend on technology for many things. We use washing machines to clean our clothes and refrigerators to keep our food fresh. If we want to play games or listen to music, we often use devices like tablets or MP3 players.

In Conclusion

We are very reliant on technology. It helps us move around, talk to people, learn new things, and do chores at home. Life without technology would be very different and much harder in many ways. It’s important to remember that technology is a big part of our lives and we use it every day.

500 Words Essay on How Dependent Are We On Technology

Our daily lives and technology.

In school, technology is everywhere. Teachers use projectors and computers to show us information. We use tablets or computers to do our homework or research. Without these tools, learning would be harder and not as fun. We can find answers to our questions quickly by searching the internet. This makes us very dependent on technology to gain knowledge and do well in school.

Communication and Technology

Think about how we talk to people. We send texts, make phone calls, and even video chat with friends and family who are far away. Social media lets us share what we are doing and see what others are doing. Without technology, we would have to write letters and wait a long time to hear back from someone. Technology makes it easy to stay in touch with people we care about.

Health and Technology

Entertainment and technology, travel and technology.

When we go places, we use technology too. Cars, buses, and trains all have technology that makes them work. We also use GPS on our phones to find out how to get to new places. Without technology, traveling would take longer and could be more complicated.

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Are We Too Dependent on Technology: Pros and Cons

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Society’s Dependent on Technology

In recent years, society has grown dependent on technology by the community. The use of computers, cell phones, and other electronic devices has become increasingly common, and many people now rely on them for both work and leisure. While this trend has some advantages, such as the ability to stay connected and the convenience of having information at one’s fingertips, there are also some disadvantages (Davidson, 2021). One of the biggest problems with societal dependence on technology is that it can lead to isolation and loneliness. When people are constantly plugged into their devices, they can lose touch with the people around them. This can be especially harmful to children and adolescents, who need social interaction to develop appropriately. In addition, too much reliance on technology can lead to a lack of critical thinking skills. When people can find all the answers they need with a simple Google search, they may not learn how to think for themselves. This can harm both their personal lives and their professional lives.

They claim that society is losing the ability to interact face-to-face, that people are becoming more isolated, and that they are losing their ability to think for themselves. While there is some truth to these claims, one would argue that the benefits of technology far outweigh the negatives (Yuspita & Zahra, 2019). Society is living in a time when people have more access to information and communication than ever. Technology has connected society with people and information they would never have access to otherwise. It has allowed them to work from anywhere, learn new things, and stay connected with the people they love.

So, while there are some benefits to society’s dependence on technology, there are also some drawbacks that should be considered. In order to mitigate the adverse effects of this trend, it is essential to make sure that people use technology in moderation and that they take the time to interact with the people around them.

Humans are unique among animals because they can engineer their way out of sticky situations. The term “technology” describes using and understanding methods, apparatus, and structures for resolving issues. It is used for various specialized functions ingrained in our social settings (Jovanović & Okanović, 2018). There is a wide range of motivations behind humans’ creation and use of technology. However, the worrying thing is that we have become too reliant on technology. Overdependency on technology has shifted the balance of power in human beings from creators to consumers because people are unwilling to engage in physical activities.

Everyone agrees that technology is not inherently harmful, but we sometimes abuse it. The increased usage of technology has made life convenient and less taxing. Technology has made it possible to store food for a long time. The time spent preparing meals has drastically reduced by a lot. The way people abuse technology with food has become detrimental to their health. All the added chemicals and ingredients to make food last longer are not suitable for the overall health of the human body.

Great strides have been achieved in communication, allowing individuals to; instantaneously connect and conduct business. Some examples of that are e-commerce platforms and even freelancing sites. It allows us to disseminate information and get access to previously unavailable data. Thanks to advancements in science and technology, the world has become globalized. We now have better healthcare. The availability of vaccinations and other modern medicine has led to a worldwide decline in mortality rates. (CSP, 2022).

Despite everything technology has helped us, it has also given us a fatal disease: dependency. The widespread belief is that technological advancements have allowed us to increase our productivity and decrease our exposure to danger by doing previously impossible tasks by hand (ARORA, 2021). Unfortunately, technology has made us far less productive as a species. In today’s elementary schools, few students can add two numbers together without using a calculator. People have grown so unmotivated that they can no longer be bothered with basic tasks like spell-checking. Instead, they rely on checking software.

Typically, this suggests that technological advancements are rapidly diminishing our cognitive capacities. People are shifting their focus from being creators and inventors to becoming consumers (West & Hutchinson, 2021). With time, people will soon depend on everything else (technology) but themselves for survival. Once technology fails, humanity will fail.

Society’s dependence on technology will lead to its downfall. However, this can change if society chooses a different route to govern them. Relying more on what humanity can do for themselves and less on what technology can do for them (Habib & Ratnaningsih, 2022). It is up to us to save ourselves, not technology. “How overdependency on technology…ruining people’s lives? Technological innovations have saved human beings a great deal…. however, depending on them too much has detrimental effects. Ultimately, this topic has made me rethink my life.

ARORA, S. (2021).  Humans are becoming excessively dependent on technology, which could harm the future . The Print. Retrieved 12 September 2022, from https://theprint.in/campus-voice/humans-becoming-excessively-dependent-on-technology-and-it-could-harm-future/686799/

CSP. (2022).  Emerging Trends in Psychology: Technology Dependence | CSP Online . CSP Online. Retrieved 12 September 2022, from https://online.csp.edu/resources/article/technology-dependency/

Davidson, T. (2021). The (d) evolution of a technological species: A history and critique of ecopsychology’s constructions of science and technology. Journal of the History of the Behavioral Sciences, 57(4), 376–395. https://doi.org/10.1002/jhbs.22134

Habib, M. A. F., & Ratnaningsih, A. P. A. (2022, March). The Analysis of Mcdonaldization Principles Application in E-Commerce. 2nd International Conference on Social Science, Political Science, and Humanities (ICoSPOLHUM, 2021) (pp. 118-124). Atlantis Press. https://www.atlantis-press.com/journals

Jovanović, M., Dlačić, J., & Okanović, M. (2018). Digitalization and society’s sustainable development–Measures and implications. Zbornik radova Ekonomskog fakulteta u Rijeci: časopis za ekonomsku teoriju i praksu, 36(2), 905-928. https://hrcak.srce.hr/213611

West, B. J., Arney, C., & Hutchinson, K. (2021). Dialogues Concerning Science, Technology, and Intellect in American Society’s and Military’s Future. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. No available eBook www.cambridgescholars.comAmazon.com

Yuspita, R., Pebruary, S., & Zahra Husnil Kamala, A. (2019). The society’s perceptions on using fintech services in sharia financial institutions. Jurnal Ekonomi & Keuangan Islam, 5(2), 87-92. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3435539

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How Technology Affects Our Lives – Essay

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Do you wish to explore the use of information technology in daily life? Essays like the one below discuss this topic in depth. Read on to find out more.

Introduction

Technology in communication, technology in healthcare, technology in government, technology in education, technology in business, negative impact of technology.

Technology is a vital component of life in the modern world. People are so dependent on technology that they cannot live without it. Technology is important and useful in all areas of human life today. It has made life easy and comfortable by making communication and transport faster and easier (Harrington, 2011, p.35).

It has made education accessible to all and has improved healthcare services. Technology has made the world smaller and a better place to live. Without technology, fulfilling human needs would be a difficult task. Before the advent of technology, human beings were still fulfilling their needs. However, with technology, fulfillment of needs has become easier and faster.

It is unimaginable how life would be without technology. Technology is useful in the following areas: transport, communication, interaction, education, healthcare, and business (Harrington, 2011, p.35). Despite its benefits, technology has negative impacts on society. Examples of negative impacts of technology include the development of controversial medical practices such as stem cell research and the embracement of solitude due to changes in interaction methods. For example, social media has changed the way people interact.

Technology has led to the introduction of cloning, which is highly controversial because of its ethical and moral implications. The growth of technology has changed the world significantly and has influenced life in a great way. Technology is changing every day and continuing to influence areas of communication, healthcare, governance, education, and business.

Technology has contributed fundamentally in improving people’s lifestyles. It has improved communication by incorporating the Internet and devices such as mobile phones into people’s lives. The first technological invention to have an impact on communication was the discovery of the telephone by Graham Bell in 1875.

Since then, other inventions such as the Internet and the mobile phone have made communication faster and easier. For example, the Internet has improved ways through which people exchange views, opinions, and ideas through online discussions (Harrington, 2011, p.38). Unlike in the past when people who were in different geographical regions could not easily communicate, technology has eradicated that communication barrier. People in different geographical regions can send and receive messages within seconds.

Online discussions have made it easy for people to keep in touch. In addition, they have made socializing easy. Through online discussions, people find better solutions to problems by exchanging opinions and ideas (Harrington, 2011, p.39). Examples of technological inventions that facilitate online discussions include emails, online forums, dating websites, and social media sites.

Another technological invention that changed communication was the mobile phone. In the past, people relied on letters to send messages to people who were far away. Mobile phones have made communication efficient and reliable. They facilitate both local and international communication.

In addition, they enable people to respond to emergencies and other situations that require quick responses. Other uses of cell phones include the transfer of data through applications such as infrared and Bluetooth, entertainment, and their use as miniature personal computers (Harrington, 2011, p.40).

The latest versions of mobile phones are fitted with applications that enable them to access the Internet. This provides loads of information in diverse fields for mobile phone users. For business owners, mobile phones enhance the efficiency of their business operations because they are able to keep in touch with their employees and suppliers (Harrington, 2011, p.41). In addition, they are able to receive any information about the progress of their business in a short period of time.

Technology has contributed significantly to the healthcare sector. For example, it has made vital contributions in the fields of disease prevention and health promotion. Technology has aided in the understanding of the pathophysiology of diseases, which has led to the prevention of many diseases. For example, understanding the pathophysiology of the gastrointestinal tract and blood diseases has aided in their effective management (Harrington, 2011, p.49).

Technology has enabled practitioners in the medical field to make discoveries that have changed the healthcare sector. These include the discovery that peptic ulceration is caused by a bacterial infection and the development of drugs to treat schizophrenia and depressive disorders that afflict a greater portion of the population (Harrington, 2011, p.53). The development of vaccines against polio and measles led to their total eradication.

Children who are vaccinated against these diseases are not at risk of contracting the diseases. The development of vaccines was facilitated by technology, without which certain diseases would still be causing deaths in great numbers. Vaccines play a significant role in disease prevention.

Technology is used in health promotion in different ways. First, health practitioners use various technological methods to improve health care. eHealth refers to the use of information technology to improve healthcare by providing information on the Internet to people. In this field, technology is used in three main ways.

These include its use as an intervention tool, its use in conducting research studies, and its use for professional development (Lintonen et al, 2008, p. 560). According to Lintonenet al (2008), “e-health is the use of emerging information and communications technology, especially the internet, to improve or enable health and healthcare.” (p.560). It is largely used to support health care interventions that are mainly directed towards individual persons. Secondly, it is used to improve the well-being of patients during recovery.

Bedside technology has contributed significantly in helping patients recover. For example, medical professionals have started using the Xbox computer technology to develop a revolutionary process that measures limb movements in stroke patients (Tanja-Dijkstra, 2011, p.48). This helps them recover their manual competencies. The main aim of this technology is to help stroke patients do more exercises to increase their recovery rate and reduce the frequency of visits to the hospital (Lintonen et al, 2008, p. 560).

The government has utilized technology in two main areas. These include the facilitation of the delivery of citizen services and the improvement of defense and national security (Scholl, 2010, p.62). The government is spending large sums of money on wireless technologies, mobile gadgets, and technological applications. This is in an effort to improve their operations and ensure that the needs of citizens are fulfilled.

For example, in order to enhance safety and improve service delivery, Cisco developed a networking approach known as Connected Communities. This networking system connects citizens with the government and the community. The system was developed to improve the safety and security of citizens, improve service delivery by the government, empower citizens, and encourage economic development.

The government uses technology to provide information and services to citizens. This encourages economic development and fosters social inclusion (Scholl, 2010, p.62). Technology is also useful in improving national security and the safety of citizens. It integrates several wireless technologies and applications that make it easy for security agencies to access and share important information effectively. Technology is widely used by security agencies to reduce vulnerability to terrorism.

Technologically advanced gadgets are used in airports, hospitals, shopping malls, and public buildings to screen people for explosives and potentially dangerous materials or gadgets that may compromise the safety of citizens (Bonvillian and Sharp, 2001, par2). In addition, security agencies use surveillance systems to restrict access to certain areas. They also use technologically advanced screening and tracking methods to improve security in places that are prone to terrorist attacks (Bonvillian and Sharp, 2001, par3).

Technology has made significant contributions in the education sector. It is used to enhance teaching and learning through the use of different technological methods and resources. These include classrooms with digital tools such as computers that facilitate learning, online learning schools, blended learning, and a wide variety of online learning resources (Barnett, 1997, p.74). Digital learning tools that are used in classrooms facilitate learning in different ways. They expand the scope of learning materials and experiences for students, improve student participation in learning, make learning easier and quick, and reduce the cost of education (Barnett, 1997, p.75). For example, online schools and free learning materials reduce the costs that are incurred in purchasing learning materials. They are readily available online. In addition, they reduce the expenses that are incurred in program delivery.

Technology has improved the process of teaching by introducing new methods that facilitate connected teaching. These methods virtually connect teachers to their students. Teachers are able to provide learning materials and the course content to students effectively. In addition, teachers are able to give students an opportunity to personalize learning and access all learning materials that they provide. Technology enables teachers to serve the academic needs of different students.

In addition, it enhances learning because the problem of distance is eradicated, and students can contact their teachers easily (Barnett, 1997, p.76). Technology plays a significant role in changing how teachers teach. It enables educators to evaluate the learning abilities of different students in order to devise teaching methods that are most efficient in the achievement of learning objectives.

Through technology, teachers are able to relate well with their students, and they are able to help and guide them. Educators assume the role of coaches, advisors, and experts in their areas of teaching. Technology helps make teaching and learning enjoyable and gives it meaning that goes beyond the traditional classroom set-up system (Barnett, 1997, p.81).

Technology is used in the business world to improve efficiency and increase productivity. Most important, technology is used as a tool to foster innovation and creativity (Ray, 2004, p.62). Other benefits of technology to businesses include the reduction of injury risk to employees and improved competitiveness in the markets. For example, many manufacturing businesses use automated systems instead of manual systems. These systems eliminate the costs of hiring employees to oversee manufacturing processes.

They also increase productivity and improve the accuracy of the processes because of the reduction of errors (Ray, 2004, p.63). Technology improves productivity due to Computer-aided Manufacturing (CAM), Computer-integrated Manufacturing (CIM), and Computer-aided Design (CAD). CAM reduces labor costs, increases the speed of production, and ensures a higher level of accuracy (Hunt, 2008, p.44). CIM reduces labor costs, while CAD improves the quality and standards of products and reduces the cost of production.

Another example of the use of technology in improving productivity and output is the use of database systems to store data and information. Many businesses store their data and other information in database systems that make accessibility of information fast, easy, and reliable (Pages, 2010, p.44).

Technology has changed how international business is conducted. With the advent of e-commerce, businesses became able to trade through the Internet on the international market (Ray, 2004, p.69). This means that there is a large market for products and services. In addition, it implies that most markets are open 24 hours a day.

For example, customers can shop for books or music on Amazon.com at any time of the day. E-commerce has given businesses the opportunity to expand and operate internationally. Countries such as China and Brazil are taking advantage of opportunities presented by technology to grow their economy.

E-commerce reduces the complexities involved in conducting international trade (Ray, 2004, p.71). Its many components make international trade easy and fast. For example, a BOES system allows merchants to execute trade transactions in any language or currency, monitor all steps involved in transactions, and calculate all costs involved, such as taxes and freight costs (Yates, 2006, p.426).

Financial researchers claim that a BOES system is capable of reducing the cost of an international transaction by approximately 30% (Ray, 2004, p.74). BOES enables businesses to import and export different products through the Internet. This system of trade is efficient and creates a fair environment in which small and medium-sized companies can compete with large companies that dominate the market.

Despite its many benefits, technology has negative impacts. It has negative impacts on society because it affects communication and has changed the way people view social life. First, people have become more anti-social because of changes in methods of socializing (Harrington, 2008, p.103). Today, one does not need to interact physically with another person in order to establish a relationship.

The Internet is awash with dating sites that are full of people looking for partners and friends. The ease of forming friendships and relationships through the Internet has discouraged many people from engaging in traditional socializing activities. Secondly, technology has affected the economic statuses of many families because of high rates of unemployment. People lose jobs when organizations and businesses embrace technology (Harrington, 2008, p.105).

For example, many employees lose their jobs when manufacturing companies replace them with automated machines that are more efficient and cost-effective. Many families are struggling because of the lack of a constant stream of income. On the other hand, technology has led to the closure of certain companies because the world does not need their services. This is prompted by technological advancements.

For example, the invention of digital cameras forced Kodak to close down because people no longer needed analog cameras. Digital cameras replaced analog cameras because they are easy to use and efficient. Many people lost their jobs due to changes in technology. Thirdly, technology has made people lazy and unwilling to engage in strenuous activities (Harrington, 2008, p.113).

For example, video games have replaced physical activities that are vital in improving the health of young people. Children spend a lot of time watching television and playing video games such that they have little or no time for physical activities. This has encouraged the proliferation of unhealthy eating habits that lead to conditions such as diabetes.

Technology has elicited heated debates in the healthcare sector. Technology has led to medical practices such as stem cell research, implant embryos, and assisted reproduction. Even though these practices have been proven viable, they are highly criticized on the grounds of their moral implications on society.

There are many controversial medical technologies, such as gene therapy, pharmacogenomics, and stem cell research (Hunt, 2008, p.113). The use of genetic research in finding new cures for diseases is imperative and laudable. However, the medical implications of these disease treatment methods and the ethical and moral issues associated with the treatment methods are critical. Gene therapy is mostly rejected by religious people.

They claim that it is against natural law to alter the gene composition of a person in any way (Hunt, 2008, p.114). The use of embryonic stem cells in research is highly controversial, unlike the use of adult stem cells. The controversy exists because of the source of the stem cells. The cells are obtained from embryos. There is a belief among many people that life starts after conception.

Therefore, using embryos in research means killing them to obtain their cells for research. The use of embryo cells in research is considered in the same light as abortion: eliminating a life (Hunt, 2008, p.119). These issues have led to disagreements between the science and the religious worlds.

Technology is a vital component of life in the modern world. People are so dependent on technology that they cannot live without it. Technology is important and useful in all areas of human life today.

It has made life easy and comfortable by making communication faster and travel faster, making movements between places easier, making actions quick, and easing interactions. Technology is useful in the following areas of life: transport, communication, interaction, education, healthcare, and business. Despite its benefits, technology has negative impacts on society.

Technology has eased communication and transport. The discovery of the telephone and the later invention of the mobile phone changed the face of communication entirely. People in different geographical regions can communicate easily and in record time. In the field of health care, technology has made significant contributions in disease prevention and health promotion. The development of vaccines has eradicated certain diseases, and the use of the Internet is vital in promoting health and health care.

The government uses technology to enhance the delivery of services to citizens and the improvement of defense and security. In the education sector, teaching and learning processes have undergone significant changes owing to the impact of technology. Teachers are able to relate to different types of learners, and the learners have access to various resources and learning materials. Businesses benefit from technology through the reduction of costs and increased efficiency of business operations.

Despite the benefits, technology has certain disadvantages. It has negatively affected human interactions and socialization and has led to widespread unemployment. In addition, its application in the healthcare sector has elicited controversies due to certain medical practices such as stem cell research and gene therapy. Technology is very important and has made life easier and more comfortable than it was in the past.

Barnett, L. (1997). Using Technology in Teaching and Learning . New York: Routledge.

Bonvillian, W., and Sharp, K. (2011). Homeland Security Technology . Retrieved from https://issues.org/bonvillian/ .

Harrington, J. (2011). Technology and Society . New York: Jones & Bartlett Publishers.

Hunt, S. (2008). Controversies in Treatment Approaches: Gene Therapy, IVF, Stem Cells and Pharmagenomics. Nature Education , 19(1), 112-134.

Lintonen, P., Konu, A., and Seedhouse, D. (2008). Information Technology in Health Promotion. Health Education Research , 23(3), 560-566.

Pages, J., Bikifalvi, A., and De Castro Vila, R. (2010). The Use and Impact of Technology in Factory Environments: Evidence from a Survey of Manufacturing Industry in Spain. International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology , 47(1), 182-190.

Ray, R. (2004). Technology Solutions for Growing Businesses . New York: AMACOM Div American Management Association.

Scholl, H. (2010). E-government: Information, Technology and Transformation . New York: M.E. Sharpe.

Tanja-Dijkstra, K. (2011). The Impact of Bedside Technology on Patients’ Well-Being. Health Environments Research & Design Journal (HERD) , 5(1), 43-51.

Yates, J. (2006). How Business Enterprises use Technology: Extending the Demand-Side Turn. Enterprise and Society , 7(3), 422-425.

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B.A. in Psychology

Emerging Trends in Psychology: Tech Dependency

There’s no doubt that the exponential growth of technology has benefited society, but there is a darker side to the rise of the machine. As people become more and more technologically connected, some are concerned that we are losing important aspects of the human experience, becoming impatient, impulsive, forgetful, and even narcissistic. That’s why experts are questioning society’s dependence on technology: what it is, how it happened, and what we can do to mitigate the risks of dependency during a time of tech advancement.

Regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or economic status, most individuals are smartphone users — in fact, you probably have one on you right now. And we’re using them everywhere, from the dinner table to when we are driving. This is part of why we feel so much anxiety when phones are lost, dead, or even out of reach for a few minutes.

Smartphones and other devices have become so central to modern life that many rely on them for everything. When was the last time you remembered a phone number without checking, or paid your bills by mail? Communication with loved ones, money management, social media, and GPS directions are all tethered to the Internet and the  Internet of Things , making connectivity more vital than ever before. All of this contributes to technology dependency, what a 2012 report claims is “possibly the biggest non-drug addiction of the 21st century.”

About Technology Dependence

When  The New York Times   covered the topic in 2010 , the reporter interviewed Dr. Elias Aboujaoude, a psychiatrist and the author of  Virtually You: The Dangerous Powers of the E-Personality . His assessment was less than positive: “More and more, life is resembling the chat room. We’re paying a price in terms of our cognitive life because of this virtual lifestyle.” And some studies have suggested that excessive dependence on cellphones and the Internet is akin to addiction. In the past, the central concern was that technology detracts from interpersonal relationships and social norms. However, psychologists have noticed a “subtle and more insidious” effect of the move to online: “It may be that the immediacy of the Internet, the efficiency of the iPhone and the anonymity of the chat room change the core of who we are,”  The   New York Times  reports.

Now, a name has been coined for the fear of being without your phone: “nomophobia” (i.e., no mobile phobia).  Psychology Today  describes it as “that rush of anxiety and fear when you realize you are disconnected and out of the loop with friends, family, work and the world.” Polls suggest that women are slightly more prone to this separation anxiety: SecurEnvoy reports 70 percent of women and 61 percent of men experience these symptoms.

It’s important to keep in mind that these are not considered classic phobias and aren’t in the American Psychiatric Association’s  Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders  ( DSM-V ), but this may change. It has been proposed to be included in the next edition,  DSM-VI , as a specific phobia. However, validated psychometric scales are now available as a diagnostic tool. One example is the “Questionnaire of Dependence of Mobile Phone/Test of Mobile Phone Dependence.” According to the article  “Psychological Predictors of Problem Mobile Phone Use,”  psychological factors are involved in the overuse of mobile phones and other devices. These could include low self-esteem, impulsiveness, sensation-seeking, and highly extroverted or introverted personality. Technology dependence can also heighten the symptoms of preexisting disorders such as social phobia, social anxiety disorder, or panic disorder. One study reported that the stress levels associated with nomophobia are equivalent to those of “wedding day jitters” and trips to the dentist. The anxiety and other feelings caused by tech dependence are very real.

Whether nomophobia is a true mental disorder is up to interpretation and further research, but the impact on individuals’ lives is significant. More than one in two of those surveyed experiencing these anxieties report that they never turn off their phones. This is because, as marriage and family therapist Sharon Gilchrest O’Neill explains in an  interview with Cult of Mac , there are calls and texts clients feel they must be able to answer. When we are constantly anticipating a technological interaction — a phone call, text, email, or social media notification — our bodies and brains respond in a way that registers as anxiety. In short, smartphones and other devices create a waiting game environment. The user is constantly anxious about missing out on what’s happening in the digital world. Psychologist Larry Rosen describes it to  Computerworld  as “that split between a level of addiction, meaning we’re trying to get pleasure, versus … trying to reduce our anxiety.”

Psychosocial Factors

Because technology is so woven into our daily lives, oftentimes users have no choice but to spend hours online each day. Dr. Kimberly Young, a psychologist and author of  Caught in the Net , told  The   New York Times  that technology dependence and nomophobia are similar to other addictions. Technology is essential in today’s society, so those who exhibit disordered online behavior can never entirely give up use. Instead, they must learn moderation and self-control. This is why some experts suggest setting limits for how often you check your smartphone, and even leaving it at home occasionally. Some restaurants and airport lounges are making the choice for us, by implementing “no cellphone use” and “quiet zone” policies. The trend toward such practices is reminiscent of how cigarette use has been banned in many public (and private) spaces. For some, not having the distraction of a smartphone makes an evening more enjoyable; for others, it may be stressful and anxiety-inducing.

Clinical characteristics of nomophobia or technology dependence are easily noticeable in social settings. Individuals may considerably decrease face-to-face interaction with others, preferring to communicate via technology as much as possible. Because users may lean on smartphones and other technology to avoid feelings of discomfort, anguish, or stress, they exhibit extreme or irrational reactions when Internet use is restricted in airports, schools, hospitals, and workplaces. Signs of depression can occur when the user doesn’t receive digital contact such as “likes” on a Facebook photo or replies to text messages. Attachment symptoms include the urge to sleep with a device or have it at all times. When the device becomes necessary for peace of mind and security, technology dependence could be the cause.

Nomophobia or technology dependence could also be  related to other disorders . Bragazzi and Puente suggest this in “ A proposal for including nomophobia in the new  DSM-V .” Those who are diagnosed with underlying social disorders are likely to experience “nervousness, anxiety, anguish, perspiration and trembling when separated or unable to use their digital device. Mobile phones, tablets or laptops make such individuals feel safer, more confident and less anxious. In short, nomophobic and tech-dependent behavior can reinforce social anxiety tendencies as a method of reducing stress generated by social anxiety or phobia. Empirically proven treatments are limited thus far because technology dependence is a relatively new concept. However, cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy combined with pharmacological interventions such as clonazepam and tranylcypromine have been successful in reducing its effects. It is important to note that these medications were designed to treat social anxiety disorder rather than nomophobia directly. Experts suggest investigating, identifying and treating any underlying mental disorders that may contribute to the dependent behaviors as the best starting point.

Combating Technology Dependence

Though there are serious cases of nomophobia and tech dependence that require professional medical or behavioral health interventions, there are ways for us to reduce reliance on technology and break bad habits. The following are tips and effective practices for maintaining a balance between our lives and the digital world.

• No texting while driving. This should be obvious for safety reasons, both for yourself and others. Keep smartphone use to before and after you drive.
• No taking your device into the bathroom. These small breaks add up and can help you step away from your screen. Not to mention, this tip prevents phone death by toilet or sink.
• Pay with your wallet. It seems small, but think about how many times a week you make a financial transaction. Keeping your phone in your pocket while you pay could significantly reduce screen time, even if it’s just because you have to put it down for the moment.
• Keep your phone out of bed. It’s tempting to fall asleep while scrolling through Facebook, but breaking this habit is another way to reduce technology dependency. Also turn off the phone completely while you’re asleep.
• Turn off your phone when you’re with friends. This may be the most difficult habit to break. Focus on the people you are interacting with in person, not just on social media.
• Try leaving your phone at home. When possible, spend a day without technology at your fingertips. You can start with a dinner date of a few hours and then progress to being without your phone for an entire day.

When it comes to technology dependence, personal moderation can play a central role. Though the Internet has become a requirement for many aspects of our lives, there are still many occasions when unplugging is possible — and preferable — to being tethered to a device. With continuing innovation and technology changes, it will become more difficult to strike a balance between “real” life and online life. But as more is learned about our tendency to become attached to technology, strategies and even treatments will emerge to help mitigate the negative behaviors associated with it.

If you are interested in the psychology and social behaviors behind technology dependency, a degree in psychology may be right for you. Concordia University, St. Paul’s  bachelor’s degree in psychology online  provides a solid educational foundation for both entry-level social sciences careers and continued education in graduate programs.

More From Forbes

Is society moving in the right direction with technology rapidly taking over the world.

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Over the last centuries, society witnessed technological advancements gradually making everyday lives easier, more convenient, and – well, more interesting. In the 21st century, however, technology made a true quantum leap, with augmented reality, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing being just a few examples of the most recent inventions.

Though we are getting used to advancements of any kind, is the development of technology really good for society?

Some Areas in Which Technology Has Changed Our Lives

Advancements in technology have already tapped into every area of life, with its impact particularly notable in these segments:

• Lifestyle. From working remotely to ordering food delivery or booking a hotel room online, most people now rely on the Internet as an irreplaceable part of their lives. Advancements in technology have completely re-shaped the everyday routine of a Modern Human.
• Health. Telehealth, EHR, 3D medical imaging, smart wearable devices that track heart rate and blood oxygen level are just a few examples of technological advancements introduced in health care over the last few decades.  
• Privacy. In the digital world, privacy is more important than ever. While the rates of cybercrimes increase, which by the way is also a recent tech innovation, such advancements as cryptography and antivirus software strike a blow, saving users’ privacy online.
• The attitude of the youth. A huge part of the modern generation literally can not imagine their lives without technology: they use smart devices at home and school, google anything they want to know, wear smartwatches, have video calls, and own robots and self-driving cars.
• Business. Such innovations as cloud computing, Big Data, Data Science, AI/ML completely reshaped the modern business landscape. The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated digital transformations, prompting most businesses to switch to remote mode.
• Human behavior. With the mass adoption of mobile smart devices, people virtualized most of their day-to-day tasks. There is a dedicated mobile app for everything: booking a ride, tracking eating and sleeping habits, or even checking how one would look when he/she gets old.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, how has technology affected people.

It is indisputable that thanks to technology, we get a chance to live a life our predecessors could not even dream about. But do all tech advancements bring sole good to our lives? Or, maybe, the impact of tech innovations is quite ambiguous.

Positive Impact Of Technology

When all areas of human activity get rapidly digitized, it’s easy to become desensitized to the importance of innovations and advancements for the overall progress of society. But technology helps us immensely, for instance:

• Now that the agricultural processes are mechanized and automated, farmers may grow and harvest more crops.
• With advancements in transportation, people can travel long distances with speed and comfort – by air, land, or water.
• Communication, enriched with online channels, video calling, and 5G technologies, has reached new heights, connecting people from all corners of the globe.
• Radio, television, electronic media are indispensable means of news and information for people in any country worldwide.
• Education has recently become more accessible to all people, irrespective of their geographical location, thanks to modern technological advancements, such as online classrooms, electronic curricula, digital learning management systems among others.  

How to Get the Most out of Technology o remain empowered, not distressed, by the modern technological advancements, everyone should use them where and when needed .

For instance, you can make use of productivity and time-tracking apps available for smartphones or PCs when feeling a lack of concentration or self-discipline. Similarly, if you are concerned with your health and lifestyle, you can choose from a wide range of wearable devices and fitness apps.

Most of the digital tools can be downloaded free of charge, which makes it even easier to use them.

Negative Impact Of Technology

On the downside, some technological developments prove to be a curse rather than a blessing. Here are a few examples:

• Excessive use of gadgets, lack of offline communication, and social media abuse were proven to cause negative effects on mental health.
• In online communication, people are often hog-tied to express non-verbal cues, which results in misunderstandings and offenses.
• Relationships of those people who spend more time communicating online, compared to offline, may become tense and more fragile over time.
• Younger people, more prone to digital world addictions , sometimes lose the skills and desire to communicate with their peers face-to-face, in the real world.
• Video-gaming addicts often do not leave their homes for weeks and lead sedentary lifestyles, which eventually ruin their health.
• Teenagers spend too much time scrolling through Instagram and TikTok feeds bringing severe mental health problems to them as they tend to compare themselves to the dummy perfect images of others they see online.    

How to Reduce Negative Effects of Technology  Excessive use of technology can do more harm than good, and we should bear this in mind before we rush into digitizing our lives.

It is important to monitor the use of tech in every aspect of daily routine and, while it is not too late, limit the time spent in front of the smartphone screen. 

Also, it's a good idea to use all-in-one apps to manage a complex of tasks (e.g., having all your email accounts and messengers integrated in one place) rather than switching between a dozen of smaller apps for each activity. 

As an alternative to playing a video game or scrolling through social media, find a paper book that would interest you and spend time outdoors regularly. Instead of watching another Netflix episode in front of a TV set, talk to your family or take up gardening.

Spending more time outdoors, without electronic devices, promotes life-work balance and is generally good for a healthy lifestyle.    

Technological Advancements Of The Modern Day

Though it may be tough to predict which advancements technology would bring next, some innovations are already changing our beliefs about the world around us.

For instance, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). Something that people would have considered magic just a few decades ago is now gaining popularity in business, gaming, and team building.

Wearable screens and gesture-based computing, other recent innovations, are predicted to soon substitute the usual PC and phone screens.    

Robots, another buzzword in today’s business world, have already replaced humans in some workplaces — robotic arms work at assembly or packing lines. Flying cars will soon address the issue of limited ground space and long traffic jams.

Well, people of Earth are even projected to use technological innovations to colonize other planets in the foreseeable future. The sky is no longer the limit!

Technology improves all aspects of human lives, making them easier and diverse. Though technological advancements are generally seen as a positive change, some people perceive them in a negative light.

Overindulgence in the use of digital apps and smart devices, overreliance on online tools may sometimes lead to tragic effects. Yet, if technological developments are used wisely, they bring nothing but good to society.

Clearly, technology by itself is neither good nor bad. It is only the way and extent to which we use it that matters.

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Home / Essay Samples / Information Science and Technology / Dependence on Technology / Society Is Becoming Too Dependent On Technology

Society Is Becoming Too Dependent On Technology

• Category: Information Science and Technology , Sociology
• Topic: Dependence on Technology , Society

Pages: 3 (1325 words)

Views: 1706

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References:

• Braff, D. , 2016. 7 Ways to Break Your Technology Addiction [online]. Mentalfloss. com. Available from: http://mentalfloss. com/article/87375/7-ways-break-your-technology-addiction [Accessed 17 Feb 2019].
• Carr, N. , 2015. 'Are we becoming too reliant on computers?' [online]. The Guardian. Available from: https://www. theguardian. com/books/2015/jan/17/nicholas-carr-are-we-becoming-too-reliant-on-computers [Accessed 17 Feb 2019].
• Johansson, A. , 2018. We need to reduce our dependence on technology if we want to keep innovating [online]. The Next Web. Available from: https://thenextweb. com/contributors/2018/07/25/we-need-to-reduce-our-dependence-on-technology-if-we-want-to-keep-innovating/ [Accessed 17 Feb 2019].
• Leonard, K. , 2019. What Are the Positive & Negative Effects of Using Technology to Communicate? [online]. Smallbusiness. chron. com. Available from: https://smallbusiness. chron. com/positive-negative-effects-using-technology-communicate-21241. html [Accessed 31 Mar 2019].
• Schleicher, A. , 2015. School technology struggles to make an impact [online]. BBC News. Available from: https://www. bbc. co. uk/news/business-34174795 [Accessed 31 Mar 2019].

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