Technology: The Ever-Changing Face of the 21st Century
The past few decades have seen an unprecedented amount of change in the realm of information technology (IT). The 21stcentury is undoubtedly a technological marvel; computers and the internet have become integral components of our lives, transforming how we communicate, share information and collaborate with one another. However, giving IT such a prominent role in our society appears to have had some unforeseen consequences, as the technology of today can have a large impact on the economy and our own ethics.
It was in the late 1990s that the internet finally started to gain widespread usage, and its full potential has yet to truly be realized. Advanced technology has made it easier to conduct business and find ideas or solutions to problems in a fraction of the time earlier generations needed, yet multiple people and even nations around the world have faced economic setbacks as a result. Jobs, such as those that involve manual labor, have been greatly affected due to automation processes, and the combined effect has led to a decrease in some countries standard of living.
The situation is complicated by the fact that IT does not necessarily require a large labor force to operate, which causes a surplus of free-time for many who work in the industry. As a result, some individuals have chosen to use their knowledge and skills to engage in unethical activities, such as cyber-crime and hacking into corporate networks. Additionally, due to the global nature of IT, it can be almost impossible for authorities to pinpoint and deal with these types of crimes, meaning that vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, remain at risk from potential cyber criminals.
Fortunately, there are many initiatives that are being taken in order to combat these issues. Governments have started investing in various services, such as online banking and secure passwords, in an effort to create a safer online environment. Additionally, private companies are implementing policies that protect their customers personal information, whilst also updating their encryptions methods to ensure that any data is as secure as possible.
At the same time, the IT industry itself is also working to provide a more ethical and responsible environment. Companies, such as Microsoft and Apple, have released statements regarding the use of their own products in unethical or illegal activities, while also pushing measures to protect vulnerable individuals or groups. The industry is also taking steps to provide educational resources to those seeking to enter the field of IT, with the aim of ensuring that the technology of tomorrow is used in a positive and respectful manner.
Technology has revolutionized the modern world, and its presence in our daily lives has changed how we interact, collaborate and do business. However, the development of such advanced technology has also brought forward some ethical dilemmas, economic issues, and even the potential for criminal activity. But with initiatives such as increased safety measures and an increased focus on ethical usage, the IT industry can still be an important asset to our society, while being responsible and accountable for the technology of tomorrow.
