Introduction
Nowadays, technology is a vital part of every individual’s life, and it is practically impossible not to be influenced by the digital revolution. However, while society has recognized the benefits of technology, many concerns and controversies persist. Still, technology is more helpful due to improvements in communication and healthcare, as well as enhanced access to information, despite the possibility of employment disruptions.
Benefits of Technology
The first reason technology is helpful is that it improves communication and connectivity. The focus of late-20th-century tech continues to this day: faster, more efficient data and communication (Entschew 275). Analog-to-digital data transformation, as well as its distribution and processing, are included in digital communication (Entschew 275). Since digital technology makes it easier to communicate with friends and family—especially those who live abroad—and allows them to share experiences, it can be a useful tool in developing their social interactions (Bitto Urbanova et al. 6). As a result, better communication opportunities make such advancements crucial.
Moving on, enhanced access to information and education is the second reason why technologies are helpful. Many people see self-improvement as a significant advantage of digital technology. In this regard, individuals might commonly see motivation, improving oneself in already-existing activities, and sharing their abilities as advantages (Bitto Urbanova et al. 6). They might think that digital devices and the Internet provide them with inspiration or ideas that will spur them on to begin an activity (Bitto Urbanova et al. 6).
People can also discover a wealth of guides and instructions posted by other users on the Internet to assist them in advancing or developing their hobbies (Bitto Urbanova et al. 6). They also see the Internet as a platform where they can showcase their abilities, such as through creating blogs where they can express their ideas or beliefs or uploading various films to their YouTube channel (Bitto Urbanova et al. 6). Therefore, significant improvements in skills and competencies are what makes technologies useful.
Lastly, advancements in healthcare cannot be disregarded in this case. The impact of technology-driven supplies on medical care and human health is widespread (Bhatia 63). These consist of, among other things, eyeglasses, stethoscopes, X-ray machines, antibiotics, vaccinations, imaging, and point-of-care diagnostic tools (Bhatia 63). Thus, with the help of technology, it is now possible to offer quality care and improve the health outcomes of billions of individuals.
Concerns
Nevertheless, some believe that automation caused by the technological revolution will leave many people jobless. For example, robots used in mills have become more common since the 1970s, intensifying concern among many people (Waldrop). Moreover, amid COVID-19 challenges, many organizations found ways to become less dependent on human labor and to incorporate artificial intelligence, thereby reducing their risk exposure (Semuels).
At the same time, while the concern is meaningful and the robotization of various areas can reduce employment opportunities for many individuals, it is unlikely to occur in the near future. It will take a long time to happen (Carey). Thus, while there are concerns about the abilities of technologies to disrupt the employment of millions of people, proper regulation of the field can minimize the risks.
Conclusion
In summary, despite the potential for job disruptions, technology has been beneficial by improving communication, medical care, and access to information. First, technology is beneficial because it facilitates better connectivity and communication. Moreover, it creates increased access to knowledge and instruction.
Finally, technological improvements in healthcare improve the quality of treatment. However, others believe many people would lose their jobs due to automation driven by the technological revolution. Although there are concerns that technology could displace millions of jobs, these risks can be reduced through appropriate industry regulation.
Works Cited
Carey, Kevin. “Do Not Be Alarmed by Wild Predictions of Robots Taking Everyone’s Jobs.” Slate, 2021.
Bhatia, Rajesh. “Emerging Health Technologies and How They Can Transform Healthcare Delivery.” Journal of Health Management, vol. 23, no. 1, 2021, pp. 63-73.
Bitto Urbanova, Laura et al. “Technology Supports Me: Perceptions of the Benefits of Digital Technology in Adolescents.” Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 13, 2023, pp. 1-11.
Entschew, Elisa Maria. “Acceleration Through Digital Communication: Theorizing on a Perceived Lack of Time.” Humanistic Management Journal, vol. 6, no. 2, 2021, pp. 273-287.
Semuels, Alana. “Millions of Americans Have Lost Jobs in the Pandemic—And Robots and AI Are Replacing Them Faster Than Ever.” Time, 2020.
Waldrop, Mitchel M. “The Future of Work: Will Robots Take My Job?” Knowledge Magazine, 2018.