Technology Isn’t Everything

Has our dependency gone too far?

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In an ever changing world where technology is replacing many of our daily tasks, it isn’t surprising that we are starting to take it for granted.

Almost every aspect of our daily routine is linked to technological advancements. We are reaching a point where tech not only makes life easier for us, it also directs our schedules and inspires our decisions.

Recently I wrote an article about just how draining technology can be:

But when did the lines become blurred?

There are times when I stop and think about just how much we have come to rely on computers. Perhaps our relationship is symbiotic but I worry that there may be very negative consequences of unchecked tech development.

We’re letting tech take over our lives

That isn’t a question in my mind. I don’t feel there is much doubt that technology is now a controlling factor in our day-to-day lives.

Right now, computers, which are supposed to be our servant, are oppressing us. (Jef Raskin – Source: brainyquote)

From addiction to obsession, interaction with computer technology is consuming more and more of our work and leisure time.

Some ways in which technology is becoming integrated into routines include:

• Schedules and timetables are no longer written down. They are embedded in our mobile phone diaries and apps. Paper calendars have been replaced by screen versions and reminders now come in the form of notifications and beeps.
• Through social media, a variety of sources are influencing people electronically. By definition, ‘influencers’ are online selling products and even political ideas via imagery, videos and rhetoric. Some of this may even be driven by AI.
• Cars are starting to think for themselves. They are reminding us to stay in between the lines and suggesting routes which are apparently better for us to take. Right now there are self-driving vehicles being introduced and tested around the world too.
• Human telephonists are being replaced with computerised systems which utilise voice recognition. The personal aspect of communication is dwindling, while technology provides a barrier between us and fellow humans, effectively making us more remote.
• Comparison websites are directing our choices regarding which company to get insured with. Some of our important financial decisions are being made with the use of tech-related help.

There are so many things I could add to this list. It would be interesting to see exactly how many human tasks have been replaced by robots or AI.

It certainly seems that screen time is increasing and a lot of our free time is taken up perusing websites, interacting with apps and responding to social media which itself is riddled with AI-created content and ‘fake news.’

In A Nutshell

In reality, technology has advanced rapidly in the last twenty years. In the nineties the world wide web was an intriguing mechanism which involved long dial ups and huge download times. Now, the internet is swift, dominating and time consuming.

Technological advancement is part and parcel of our daily lives these days. It comes, inevitably, with its pros and cons.

The question is – Are we overly dependent on technology?

I have to admit, the first thing I do when I arrive at a hotel is search for the Wifi-code to get online.

So yes, I myself rely heavily on tech for access to info, for the means to publish my blog and to keep me generally entertained.

Let’s face it, how would we survive without seeing a hilarious TikTok video or Instagram reel daily?

This issue is up for debate but, on the whole it appears that our modern existence leans heavily towards computer technology and communications online.

What do you think about the idea of society depending heavily on technology?