Technology is changing the way we live. Many technological advancements have come to light in recent decades, and they are continuing to change the norms of society for the better. One example of this is given by James Vincent, writer for The Verge, who says “Uber has transformed transportation around the world.” This statement is echoed by many other writers through daily use among their friends, family, acquaintances, etc., all over the globe. These new technologies raise concerns about privacy and how our personal information will be used without us knowing it or being able to control it.
By now many people have heard about Uber’s monitoring software that records your every move while using its services. Many sources say this technology is bad but others point out that with companies tracking our every move, people are safer. Vincent says that Uber drivers “take advantage of this power by telling their riders that they’re using tracking devices to ensure customer loyalty.” This is an example of how the company uses technology to get its customers.
Furthermore, Uber’s mobile application has caused new job opportunities for many people all over the world. Uber connects independent drivers with passengers who need rides, and it is changing society for better or worse depending on your point of view. Many critics explain how Uber may improve life in cities by reducing car ownership rates, congestion, accidents and pollution but others say these benefits are coming at too high a cost; public safety especially women’s safety when using this service late at night when transportation is scarce.
Other aspects of our daily life are being invaded by modern technology. According to Vincent, “More than half of British adults have a smart TV or set-top box with internet capabilities.” This means that over 50 million people in England alone now have the ability to watch television and browse the internet simultaneously. Many others can do this but they may not realize it is possible; they probably don’t care either.
Smartphones are an example of how we love technology but hate it at the same time. We all use these devices every day but many fear losing them, cracking their screens, or getting hacked (and your information stolen). When using Siri for your iPhone or Ok Google on Android devices, you give up control over your information. Regardless of your fears, many people still choose to use smartphones because they are convenient and help you stay connected with the world around you. However, even with all these capabilities, at times it feels like technology is controlling you (the user).
This constant introduction of new technology poses new risks and concerns for everyone around the world; not just Uber users or those who watch TV online. Take the Internet of Things (IoT) as an example. Many everyday household appliances are now connected to the internet which allows them to communicate their status with each other. Your refrigerator can tell your oven that you are out of eggs so it turns off by itself when attempting to bake cookies! Such technology may be convenient but what happens if you lose your data connection on your way home from work? Suddenly, your oven doesn’t know how to work without being told what to do.
Technology is changing the world for better or worse depending on who you ask and what point of view they have. Unfortunately, there are still many people who feel technology has no place in our society and we should all go back to living life as it was one hundred years ago. Although these feelings may be understandable, the truth is that everyone uses modern technology regularly whether they realize it or not.