Technology Case
Essay Preview: Technology Case
Report this essay
The technological revolution has brought forth many changes to how humans function and its inevitable advancement continues to alter different aspects of life and how day-to-day activities are carried out. Today, technology has reshaped interactions on a personal and professional level, ultimately causing a shift in traditional values and norms. It is not uncommon for a household to possess several smartphones, computers, television sets, and be connected socially via one of many social network platforms such as Facebook or Twitter. Although this might be the case for an individual living in the 21st century, many consumers are not only used to such technology being part of their life, but are rather dependent on them. There is legitimacy in arguing that modern technology including the internet and smartphones are essential components for effective integration and advancement; however, the internet itself came to be in an age where internet and smartphones ceased to exist. Hence, such modern revolutions simply enhance efficiency but do not necessarily determine/limit progress or potential achievement. Technology can be an effective tool when used properly; however, the 21st -century human beings over-dependency on technology has negative consequences as it is analogous to drug addiction: both are addictive, are hazardous to ones health, and cause isolation.
Within todays technology-driven society, consumers are finding the notion of constant technology use appealing. The Mariam-Webster dictionary defines the word Addict as “to devote or surrender (oneself) to something habitually or obsessively” (Mariam-Webster). Both technology and drugs provide endless stimuli opportunities which stimulate the production of dopamine, thus creating a satisfying experience. Therefore both technology and drugs have potential to create addictive consumers. Psychologists consider technology addiction as common as drug addiction and its commonality merits its inclusion in the revised issue of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders in 2013 alongside drug addiction (Issues for DSM). This psychological attachment to both activities creates a compulsive need for habitual use and upon abstaining from either activity, withdrawal symptoms are experienced. According to research by the University of Maryland “four in five students had significant mental and physical distress, panic, confusion and extreme isolation when forced to unplug from technology for an entire day” (Unplugged). In addition, addiction is an expensive state of mind which can take a toll on an individuals opportunity cost; both technology and drugs require substantial investments in time and money. Spending considerable amounts of time using technology can have negative consequences on an individuals heath as does the consumption of drugs.
The publics desire for efficiency increases as their