DEV Community

Cover image for Normalizing Technological and Human Advancements: The New Affliction
Esteban Jimenez Ruiz
Esteban Jimenez Ruiz

Posted on

Normalizing Technological and Human Advancements: The New Affliction

Being addicted to technology is like being an artist trapped in a gallery full of dazzling yet often overwhelming tools. Every day, we face the pressure to stay updated with the latest technological advancements, which can be both inspiring and exhausting. This relentless pursuit of the latest gadget creates an obsession with the status associated with having the newest device. However, this drive to be at the forefront has profound effects on our mental and physical health.

Creativity is our ability to generate original and valuable ideas, solutions, and expressions. It involves seeing things from new perspectives and thinking innovatively. Technology should enhance this creativity, but when it becomes an obsession, it can have the opposite effect. The frantic pursuit of the latest device can actually stifle our creative capacity, as we remain trapped in a cycle of constant updates without truly reflecting on their impact.

Excessive use of technology and the growing trend of automation not only affect our physical well-being but also our mental health. Spending endless hours in front of screens can lead to issues such as muscle pain, blurred vision, and sleep disorders. Automation, on the other hand, replaces human jobs, creating constant pressure that contributes to stress and anxiety. The phrase “a machine works 24 hours” might sound impressive, but in practice, it leaves people struggling to find their place in an ever-changing work environment.

The production and disposal of technology also come with significant environmental costs. The accumulation of electronic waste and the energy consumption associated with technology exacerbate ecological problems. Additionally, planned obsolescence, where devices are designed to become obsolete quickly, fuels a culture of disposable consumption that harms both the environment and our perception of technology.

From a cultural perspective, technology transforms our social interactions. While it facilitates communication, it can also replace face-to-face interactions, affecting the quality of our personal relationships. The pressure to obtain instant responses and results fosters a culture of impatience, which can increase stress and frustration.

Despite all the advancements, over 4 billion people around the world still lack access to the internet and technological tools that could improve their lives. This digital divide perpetuates inequality and limits educational and professional opportunities. The lack of access impacts educational quality and reinforces existing disparities. Although there are initiatives to close this gap, such as connectivity projects and device recycling programs, much more needs to be done.

To tackle these challenges, it is crucial to adopt policies that promote digital inclusion and protect labor rights. Early digital literacy is essential for preparing future generations. Technology companies must also take responsibility for their products, adopting sustainable and ethical practices to minimize the negative impact of technology.

Looking ahead, it is important to consider how emerging technologies, such as augmented reality and quantum computing, might reshape our technological landscape. Future trends, such as ethical artificial intelligence and human-centered design, offer opportunities to mitigate the negative effects of technology and promote more balanced progress.

Ultimately, normalizing technological advancements and their impact on human life is a complex issue that requires deep reflection. Addiction to technology, environmental overload, cultural shifts, and the digital divide are aspects that affect our health and well-being. It is essential to approach these issues with a balanced perspective, promoting equitable access to technology while considering its impact on daily life. Just as in art, where every brushstroke matters, in the technological world, each advancement should be evaluated carefully to ensure that human well-being remains at the forefront.

Image description

Top comments (0)