Is the Sanctity of Technology Being Undermined by Selfish Intentions?

ALOK K. SHRIVASTAVA

Literally, as per the Internet, technology refers to scientific knowledge or emerging developments in scientific practices or trends in a particular industry. The meaning of this vital expression stems from the Greek word ‘techne’, meaning art, craft, or skill, and ‘logos’, which denotes discourse or the study of various applications relating to knowledge or practical purposes.

It can also be used — and is indeed being used — to add value to school and college methods, industrial activities, and day-to-day construction and communication.

MAJOR TYPES

Technology has several major types: medical, hotel and hospital services, manufacturing, transportation, energy, education, and office automation.

In a sense, all these encompass software, useful computer devices, the Internet, cell phones, smartphones, 5G networks, video conferencing, hospital diagnostic services and equipment, telemedicine, biotechnology, robotics, 3D printing, enhancement of power generation, and upcoming electric vehicles, among others.

MISUSE OR OVERUSE OF TECHNOLOGY

The devices and facilities mentioned above are supposed to provide positive assistance in solving various problems and responding to the challenges of everyday life. However, the fact remains that men and women, especially teenagers and youth, have become lazier and more lethargic while taking recourse to applications such as cell phones, personal computers, laptops, the Internet, WhatsApp, and social media sites.

Among the most concerning trends is the way many young and high-profile parents handle the tantrums of tiny tots by handing them cell phones or similar devices. Only thereafter do the children listen to their parents, have their meals, go out to play, or proceed to play schools and nursery classes.

In the following paragraphs, we shall see and analyse how many useful activities and habits are being ignored, forgotten, or completely sidelined due to the advent of the seemingly necessary yet often distracting instrument called the cell phone. Consequently, key purposes such as enhancing communication, boosting agricultural and industrial productivity, improving healthcare, strengthening education, and driving economic growth are not receiving the attention they deserve.

CHANGED SCENARIO

In the rapidly transformed scenario, radios, transistors, and newspapers have almost disappeared from homes. Television remains, but is hardly watched, as the new generation does not prefer older formats. The use of calculators has become a thing of the past, while cell phones now provide torches and function as mini computers with tremendous memory. Letter writing is rarely practised, and cameras, photo studios, PCOs, cinema halls, theatres, and landlines are no longer widely used.

Most importantly, the new generation hardly knows the joy and physical exercise associated with traditional street games like GilliDanda, Ice Pice, Pitto, girls’ jumping games, or street football and cricket.

Similarly, lively gossip sessions with friends and peer groups have declined. Among the worst casualties are the meaningful storytelling sessions with elders, especially grandparents like Nana, Nani, or Dadaji.

Last but not least, reading books aloud and attending live music and dance concerts are gradually declining as well.

IMPACT OF THE MIDDLE EAST WAR

It should not be forgotten that the Middle East war has been continuing without any lasting solution since 28th February. Thousands have died or suffered grievous injuries, including Indians.

If President Trump says something, it is often reinterpreted — rightly or wrongly — by Marco Rubio, his shrewd Secretary of State, or by Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister. Many believe that the latter, in an attempt to escape political and legal pressures in his own country, is allowing the crisis to continue.

If tensions escalate further, Iran may cut the optic fibre lines passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This would create tremendous difficulties for India’s pampered online consumers and shopkeepers. It is therefore high time for people to wake up from their slumber.

We must not forget that geopolitical issues, fuelled by superpower rivalry, are capable of leaving deep scars on the geoeconomics of the entire world.

The process has already begun on a large scale. The unfortunate reality is that the necessary awareness among people is still lacking. Partly, the concerned authorities may also have to share the blame.

PUNCH LINE

The rapid — and at times avoidable — dependence of human beings on cell phones, online purchases, Internet banking, and technology-driven activities in hospitals, factories, offices, aerodromes, and rail and road transportation services may have to be reduced.

Restricted, ignored, or forgotten human interactions need to be restored to bring back a semblance of control and order in society. This may also help reduce social deviance and crime. If face-to-face interaction is not possible, is it not desirable at least to shorten unnecessary chats and conversations? Will heaven fall if we talk less and work more?

If heaven falls, let it fall.

In the changed temporary scenario, one assumes we may become more focused and cheerful.

Our relationships with neighbours and relatives may also improve tremendously.