Science and technology have not allowed man to master the environment. Comment.

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management,

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management, but they have not enabled complete mastery due to unforeseen challenges, limitations, and unintended consequences.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Technological leaps have not helped mankind to truly master the environment.
  • Background: Overview of technological advancements and their environmental impact.
  • Thesis Statement: Science and technology have advanced environmental management, but mankind has not achieved complete mastery due to his own limitations.

II. Supporting View 1: Unforeseen Environmental Challenges

  • Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment through science and technology have not allowed complete mastery due to unforeseen environmental challenges.
  • Example 1: The Australian bushfires (2019-2020) demonstrated the limits of fire prediction and prevention technologies. Extreme weather and climate change exacerbated fire conditions (source: BBC, 2020).
  • Example 2: Plastic pollution in the oceans (2015-2021) remains uncontrollable despite advanced waste management technologies. Microplastics have permeated marine ecosystems (source: The Guardian, 2020).
  • Example 3: European floods (2021) showed the inadequacy of current flood prevention infrastructure. Record rainfall overwhelmed existing systems (source: Reuters, 2021).
  • Analysis: Technological advancements often fail to predict or mitigate extreme environmental events. Over 18 million hectares burned, and billions of animals affected. Approximately 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans annually.
  • Counterargument: Advances in some areas have helped mitigate some risks.

III. Supporting View 2: Technological Limitations

  • Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment has not been enchanced through science as technological limitations impede the complete mastery of the environment.
  • Example 1: Japan’s struggle with nuclear waste disposal (2016-2021) highlights the long-term challenges of nuclear technology. Safe, permanent storage solutions remain elusive (source: The Japan Times, 2021).
  • Example 2: Inadequate renewable energy storage in Germany (2016-2021) limits the effectiveness of green energy solutions. Energy storage technology has not kept pace with renewable production (source: Reuters, 2019).
  • Example 3: Soil degradation in India (2017-2021) due to over-reliance on chemical fertilisers. Technological solutions have led to unintended soil health issues (source: The Hindu, 2020). 30% of India’s agricultural land is degraded.
  • Analysis: Technological solutions often have inherent limitations and unforeseen negative impacts.
  • Case Study: Fukushima’s ongoing challenges with radioactive waste.
  • Counterargument: Advances in nuclear technology have improved safety and efficiency.

IV. Supporting View 3: Unintended Consequences of Technological Solutions

  • Topic Sentence: Technological solutions can have unintended environmental consequences. As such the understanding of the environment is still not complete.
  • Example 1: China’s rapid urbanisation (2015-2021) led to severe air and water pollution. Industrial growth outpaced environmental regulations (source: The Guardian, 2019). Air pollution causes over 1 million premature deaths annually in China.
  • Example 2: Deforestation in Brazil (2016-2021) due to biofuel production. Policies promoting biofuels led to significant forest loss (source: BBC, 2021).
  • Example 3: Overfishing in Indonesia (2018-2021) driven by advanced fishing technologies. Technological efficiency led to depleted fish stocks (source: Reuters, 2020). 50% decline in fish populations over the last decade.
  • Analysis: Technological advances can create new environmental problems while solving others.
  • Counterargument: Urban planning and green technologies are improving urban environments.

V. Opposing View 1: Enhanced Environmental Monitoring and Management

  • Topic Sentence: Science and technology have enabled better environmental monitoring and management.
  • Example 1: Norway’s use of satellite technology (2017-2021) for forest monitoring. Improved deforestation tracking and conservation efforts (source: BBC, 2019). Satellite data reduced illegal logging by 40%.
  • Example 2: Singapore’s green plan and urban sustainability initiatives (2016-2021) using smart city technologies. Advanced systems reduced urban heat and improved energy efficiency (source: The Straits Times, 2020). 15% reduction in urban heat island effect. [Read: Singapore smart nation initiative]
  • Example 3: Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts (2015-2021) aided by GPS and drones. Technology helped track and protect endangered species (source: Al Jazeera, 2021). 25% increase in wildlife populations.
  • Analysis: Technological tools have significantly improved environmental management and conservation.

VI. Opposing View 2: Renewable Energy Advancements

  • Topic Sentence: Technological advancements have significantly increased renewable energy production.
  • Example 1: Denmark’s wind energy development (2016-2021) leading to a high percentage of renewable energy. Advanced turbines and grid integration boosted efficiency (source: Reuters, 2019). Wind energy provides 47% of Denmark’s electricity.
  • Example 2: India’s solar power expansion (2017-2021) reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Large-scale solar farms contributed to significant energy shifts (source: The Hindu, 2020). Solar energy capacity reached 40 GW in 2021.
  • Example 3: Costa Rica’s commitment to renewable energy (2015-2021) achieving nearly 100% renewable electricity. Hydropower, wind, and solar integrated into the national grid (source: BBC, 2019). 99% of electricity from renewable sources.
  • Analysis: Advances in renewable energy technology have made substantial contributions to sustainable energy production.

VII. Opposing View 3: Innovative Environmental Solutions

  • Topic Sentence: Innovations have provided effective solutions to environmental problems.
  • Example 1: Netherlands’ flood management systems (2015-2021) using advanced engineering. Innovative dykes and barriers mitigated flooding risks (source: The Guardian, 2018). Flood damage reduced by 80% with new infrastructure.
  • Example 2: Vertical farming in Singapore (2016-2021) addressing urban food security. High-tech farms reduced land use and improved local food production (source: The Straits Times, 2019). 25% of vegetables produced locally in vertical farms.
  • Example 3: Finland’s waste-to-energy plants (2017-2021) turning waste into electricity. Innovative technology reduced landfill use and generated power (source: Reuters, 2019). 10% of electricity from waste-to-energy plants.
  • Analysis: Technological innovations continue to provide effective solutions to environmental challenges.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Science and technology have advanced environmental management but have not achieved complete mastery due to various limitations.
  • Summary of Key Points: Unforeseen challenges, technological limitations, unintended consequences versus enhanced monitoring, renewable energy, innovative solutions.
  • Call to Action: Suggest specific steps individuals, governments, and organizations can take to improve environmental outcomes.
  • Final Thought: While technology has made strides in managing the environment, a holistic approach considering limitations and consequences is essential for true mastery.

Additional Examples

  1. Copenhagen, Denmark: With its continuous investment in green tech and network of bicycle lanes, Copenhagen is one of the most sustainable cities. The city aims to be the first carbon-neutral city by 2025.
  2. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam — another on the list of most eco-friendly cities — promotes electric vehicles with citywide EV charging stations. Residents are encouraged to install rooftop solar panels and grow their own food or purchase locally, which contributes to the local economy.
  3. Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm is a well-planned sustainable city with a goal to eliminate the use of fossil fuels within 20 years.
  4. Berlin, Germany: Berlin is one of the best urban sustainability examples, with over 400 EV charging stations, and has been investing in green spaces since World War I.
  5. Portland, Oregon: Portland has adopted a sustainability culture, and today ¼ of its citizens commute by bike or public transport. Rideshare systems and bike paths also support green commute methods.
  6. San Francisco, California: San Francisco is one of the most sustainable cities in the US, with a zero waste program designed to divert 100% of waste from landfills by 2020. The city also banned products like plastic bags and water bottles.
  7. Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town began installing wind farms to produce sustainable energy in 2008. The city’s residents also use solar panels and grow urban gardens for food production.
  8. Helsinki, Finland: If you are an eco-traveler, Helsinki is worth visiting. A large percentage of the city’s hotel rooms have been certified as eco-friendly. The city is also developing sustainable living communities.
  9. Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver produces the lowest amount of greenhouse gases in North America. The city’s environmental focus has created a local green economy boom for the residents, supporting more green jobs and locally grown food.
  10. Reykjavik, Iceland: Reykjavik is making great strides towards eradicating generation of greenhouse emissions by inspiring people to walk, cycle, and use public transport. The city also encourages use of electric vehicles and plans to triple the number of hydrogen buses by 2030.

Technology is the only effective means of tackling social problems. Discuss.

Technology can effectively tackle social problems by improving access to services, fostering communication, and promoting innovation. However, it also poses challenges such as exacerbating inequality, privacy issues, and technological dependency

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Technology can effectively tackle social problems with speed and ease like never before.
  • Background: Overview of technology’s role in addressing social problems.
  • Thesis Statement: Technology offers effective solutions for social problems.

II. Supporting View 1: Improved Access to Services

  • Topic Sentence: Technology can effectively tackle social problems by improving access to essential services.
  • Example 1: India’s Aadhaar system (2010-present) provided millions with a digital identity, facilitating access to government services. Helped marginalised communities access subsidies and benefits (source: BBC, 2017).
  • Example 2: Kenya’s M-Pesa mobile banking (2007-present) enabled financial inclusion for millions without bank accounts. Revolutionised financial transactions and reduced poverty (source: The Guardian, 2015).
  • Example 3: Brazil’s Telehealth programme (2012-present) increased healthcare access in remote areas. Reduced healthcare disparities through telemedicine (source: Reuters, 2018).
  • Analysis: These examples show how technology enhances access to essential services, benefiting disadvantaged populations.

III. Supporting View 2: Fostering Communication and Awareness

  • Topic Sentence: Technology can effectively tackle social problems by fostering communication and raising awareness of social issues.
  • Example 1: #MeToo movement in India (2017-present) leveraged social media to highlight sexual harassment. Empowered survivors and initiated widespread social discourse (source: The New York Times, 2018).
  • Example 2: Hong Kong protests (2019-2020) used social media to organise and spread awareness. Enabled real-time coordination and global visibility (source: BBC, 2019).
  • Example 3: Chile’s feminist protests (2018-present) used digital platforms to mobilise and advocate for gender equality. Raised international awareness and sparked policy changes (source: Al Jazeera, 2019).
  • Analysis: These instances illustrate how technology can amplify voices and drive social change.

IV. Supporting View 3: Promoting Innovation and Efficiency

  • Topic Sentence: Technology drives innovation and efficiency in addressing social issues.
  • Example 1: Sweden’s smart cities (2015-present) use technology to enhance urban living and sustainability. Improved energy efficiency and quality of life (source: World Economic Forum, 2018).
  • Example 2: South Korea’s digital classrooms (2010-present) bridged educational gaps with e-learning. Equalised access to quality education (source: The Korea Times, 2017).
  • Example 3: Norway’s electric vehicle incentives (2010-present) reduced pollution and promoted sustainable transport. Became a global leader in EV adoption (source: The Guardian, 2019).
  • Analysis: These examples demonstrate technology’s role in creating innovative solutions for social problems.

V. Opposing View 1: Exacerbating Inequality

  • Topic Sentence: Technology can widen the gap between rich and poor.
  • Example 1: India’s digital divide (2015-present) left rural areas lagging in internet access. Exacerbated educational and economic disparities (source: The Hindu, 2020).
  • Example 2: South Africa’s unequal access to technology (2010-present) reinforced social inequalities. Marginalised communities missed out on technological benefits (source: Mail & Guardian, 2019).
  • Example 3: Brazil’s urban-rural technology gap (2010-present) highlighted systemic inequalities. Limited technological advancements to urban areas (source: Folha de S.Paulo, 2018).
  • Analysis: These cases show how unequal access to technology can deepen existing social disparities.

VI. Opposing View 2: Privacy and Security Concerns

  • Topic Sentence: Technology raises significant privacy and security concerns.
  • Example 1: China’s social credit system (2014-present) sparked global privacy debates. Extensive surveillance and data collection raised ethical issues (source: The Guardian, 2018).
  • Example 2: Europe’s GDPR violations (2018-present) highlighted the complexity of data privacy. Companies struggled to comply, risking user data (source: Financial Times, 2019).
  • Example 3: India’s Aadhaar data breaches (2010-present) exposed millions to privacy risks. Compromised personal information and security (source: The New York Times, 2018).
  • Analysis: These examples illustrate the significant privacy risks associated with technological advancements.

VII. Opposing View 3: Technological Dependency and Disruption

  • Topic Sentence: Over-reliance on technology can lead to dependency and disruption.
  • Example 1: Japan’s 2011 earthquake revealed vulnerabilities in technology-dependent societies. Disrupted essential services, highlighting risks (source: BBC, 2011).
  • Example 2: South Korea’s cybersecurity threats (2010-present) demonstrated risks of digital dependency. Increased vulnerability to cyber-attacks (source: The Korea Herald, 2020).
  • Example 3: Brazil’s digital economy (2015-present) faced challenges during internet outages. Economic activities halted, showing over-reliance on technology (source: Reuters, 2019).
  • Analysis: These instances show how technological dependency can lead to significant disruptions.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Technology offers effective solutions for social problems but also presents significant challenges.
  • Summary of Key Points: Improved access, communication, innovation versus inequality, privacy, and dependency.
  • Final Thought: Balancing technological advancements with ethical considerations is crucial for addressing social problems effectively.

Nota Benne:

Can laws be implemented to solve social problems? What about the role of education?

Technological advancements always have a democratising effect. What is your view?

Technological advancements can have a democratising effect by increasing access to information and resources, but they can also exacerbate inequalities and create new forms of control.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: Modern day Luddites opine that tentacles of technology only cause more terror. Technology cannot bring about a democratising effect – only education can.
  • Background: Overview of technological advancements and their impact on society.
  • Thesis Statement: While technological advancements can democratise access, they can also deepen inequalities and enhance control mechanisms.

II. Supporting View 1: Increased Access to Information

  • Topic Sentence: Technological advancements provides widespread access to information and can also change the world.
  • Example 1: India’s Digital India initiative (2015-2021) expanded internet access in rural areas. Millions gained access to educational and financial resources.
  • Example 2: Kenya’s M-Pesa mobile banking system (2010-2020) revolutionised financial inclusion. Enabled millions without traditional bank access to perform financial transactions.
  • Example 3: Brazil’s use of digital platforms for education (2019-2021) during the pandemic. Allowed continued learning despite school closures.
  • Analysis: Increased access to information empowers individuals and communities.

III. Supporting View 2: Empowerment through Social Media

  • Topic Sentence: Technological advancements through social media empowers marginalised voices.
  • Example 1: Hong Kong protests (2019-2020) leveraged social media for organisation and awareness. Enabled activists to bypass traditional media censorship.
  • Example 2: Chile’s feminist movement (2018-2021) used social media to mobilise and advocate. Brought global attention to local issues.
  • Example 3: Nigerian End SARS movement (2020) used Twitter to coordinate and amplify protests. Highlighted police brutality and rallied international support.
  • Analysis: Social media platforms provide a voice to those traditionally excluded.

IV. Supporting View 3: Enhanced Civic Participation

  • Topic Sentence: Technology advancements enhances civic engagement and participation.
  • Example 1: Taiwan’s online participatory budgeting (2016-2021) enabled direct citizen involvement in budget decisions. Increased transparency and accountability in governance.
  • Example 2: Estonia’s e-residency program (2014-2021) facilitated global entrepreneurship and democratic participation. Broadened civic engagement beyond borders.
  • Example 3: Iceland’s crowdsourced constitution (2011-2021) engaged citizens in drafting governance policies. Leveraged digital tools for democratic participation.
  • Analysis: Digital tools can foster greater civic engagement and transparency.

V. Opposing View 1: Digital Divide and Inequality

  • Topic Sentence: Technology can widen the gap between rich and poor.
  • Example 1: India’s urban-rural digital divide (2015-2021) left many rural areas with inadequate internet access. Economic and educational opportunities remained unevenly distributed.
  • Example 2: South Africa’s unequal internet access (2010-2020) reinforced existing socioeconomic disparities. Wealthier areas benefitted more from technological advancements.
  • Example 3: Mexico’s digital exclusion of indigenous communities (2015-2021). Limited access to digital tools perpetuated marginalisation.
  • Analysis: Technological benefits are not evenly distributed, exacerbating existing inequalities.

VI. Opposing View 2: Surveillance and Control

  • Topic Sentence: Technology can be used for surveillance and control.
  • Example 1: China’s social credit system (2014-2021) monitors and restricts citizen behaviour. Extensive surveillance limits personal freedoms.
  • Example 2: Russia’s internet censorship (2010-2020) controls and suppresses dissent. Government uses technology to stifle opposition.
  • Example 3: Iran’s digital surveillance during protests (2019-2021) tracked and detained activists. Technology used to oppress rather than empower.
  • Analysis: Technological advancements can be tools for authoritarian control.

VII. Opposing View 3: Misinformation and Polarisation

  • Topic Sentence: Technology can spread misinformation and polarise societies.
  • Example 1: Brazil’s misinformation during the 2018 elections influenced voter behaviour. Fake news spread rapidly via social media.
  • Example 2: India’s WhatsApp misinformation campaigns (2016-2021) incited violence. False information led to real-world harm.
  • Example 3: France’s social media-driven protests (2018-2020) showed polarisation effects. Echo chambers reinforced divisive narratives.
  • Analysis: Technology can amplify misinformation, leading to social fragmentation.

VIII. Conclusion

  • Restate Thesis: Technological advancements can democratise access and empower individuals, but also deepen inequalities and enable control.
  • Summary of Key Points: Increased information access, social media empowerment, civic participation, digital divide, surveillance, and misinformation.
  • Final Thought: Balancing technology’s benefits and risks is crucial for a just society.

Nota benne:

The word ‘always’ in the question requires the student to show that it is perpetually so, or that tech never ceases to perform its function as an enabler of democracy. Students will be severly marked down if they fail to address the keyword ‘always’.

Technology has made us lazy. Discuss.

Supporting View 1: Technology has reduced physical activity and encouraged sedentary lifestyles.

Examples:

  1. The rise of food delivery apps in the UK has led to a decrease in people cooking at home.
  2. Japanese youth increasingly prefer indoor, tech-based activities over outdoor sports and recreation.
  3. In Australia, excessive screen time has been linked to rising obesity rates among children.

Supporting View 2: Technology has diminished our cognitive efforts and problem-solving skills.

Examples:

  1. British schools report a decline in mental arithmetic skills due to calculator reliance.
  2. German employers note a decrease in job applicants’ ability to perform simple tasks without digital aids.
  3. Indian parents express concern over children’s reduced creativity, attributing it to increased tablet use.

Opposing View 1: Technology has enabled greater productivity and efficiency in various sectors.

Examples:

  1. American farmers use GPS-guided machinery to optimise crop yields and reduce labour.
  2. South Korean hospitals employ robotic assistants to enhance surgical precision and patient care.
  3. Swedish companies implement remote work technologies, improving work-life balance for employees.

Opposing View 2: Technology has facilitated access to information and learning opportunities.

Examples:

  1. Rural African communities access education through mobile learning platforms, bridging educational gaps.
  2. Chinese language learners use AI-powered apps to practise speaking with virtual tutors.
  3. European museums offer virtual tours, making art and history accessible to global audiences

Only science can save the environment. Discuss.

I. Introduction

  • Hook: In the face of mounting environmental crises, the question of how best to protect and restore our planet has become increasingly urgent.
  • Background: Brief overview of the contributions of scientific advancements to environmental conservation and the role of other disciplines.
  • Thesis Statement: While science plays an essential role in addressing environmental issues through technological innovation, social, political, and cultural efforts are equally crucial in creating sustainable change, indicating that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to effectively save the environment.

II. Supporting View 1: Technological Innovations

  • Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements provide vital technological innovations that address environmental challenges.
  • Example 1: Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, have significantly reduced reliance on fossil fuels and decreased greenhouse gas emissions. See Germany’s Energiewende.
  • Example 2: Advances in environmental engineering, such as water purification systems and sustainable agricultural practices, help mitigate pollution and promote resource conservation. See China’s and India’s green revolution.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these technologies highlight the indispensable role of science in developing practical solutions to environmental problems.

III. Supporting View 2: Data-Driven Solutions

  • Topic Sentence: Science offers data-driven solutions that are critical for understanding and managing environmental issues.
  • Example 1: Climate modelling and satellite monitoring provide accurate data on climate change patterns, guiding policy decisions and mitigation strategies. See strategy in Kenya to help farmers.
  • Example 2: Scientific research on biodiversity loss informs conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and wildlife corridors. See expansion of conservation efforts in Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Peru.
  • Analysis: Examine how these scientific contributions enable informed decision-making and effective management of environmental resources.

IV. Opposing View 1: Importance of Political Will and Policy

  • Topic Sentence: Effective environmental conservation also requires strong political will and comprehensive policy measures.
  • Example 1: International agreements like the Paris Agreement rely on political cooperation and commitment to reduce global carbon emissions.
  • Example 2: National policies promoting sustainability, such as the Rwanda and UK’s ban on single-use plastics, demonstrate the impact of legislative action on environmental protection.
  • Analysis: Discuss how these political efforts are crucial for implementing and enforcing scientific solutions, highlighting the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach.

V. Opposing View 2: Role of Social and Cultural Change

  • Topic Sentence: Social and cultural change is essential for fostering environmental awareness and sustainable behaviours.
  • Example 1: Grassroots movements like Extinction Rebellion and Fridays for Future mobilise public support and pressure governments to take action on climate change.
  • Example 2: Educational campaigns and community initiatives, such as recycling programmes and sustainable lifestyle workshops, promote environmental responsibility and engagement. See recycling initiatives in Germany and Taiwan.
  • Analysis: Explore how these social efforts complement scientific solutions by changing public attitudes and behaviours towards the environment.

Technology has worsened conflict in society. Do you agree?

Is it fair to say that technology has only  worsened conflict In society?

Modern day Luddities have decried the overgrowth of technology in our lives, claiming that it has worsened our lives. These same neo-technophobes use handphones to communicate, use social media to gain attention and even take comfort in doctors giving them the all clear. These fatalists constantly misread technology and believe that sociopolitical tensions emanate from technology. Nothing can be further than the truth. Technology has not worsened conflict in society.

Anyone that claims that technology has exacerbated the potential for war really does not understand global politics. They cite Mutually Assured Destruction (M.A.D) as Cold-War relic that still has significance today.  Or these doomsday proponents will raise Ronald Reagan’s Strategic Defence Initiative (S.D.I) as an additional example to bolster their weak M.A.D argument. Little do they realize that technology has infact reduced the need for destructive weapons. With military powers gaining technological advances, they have been able to map and track every pontial trouble and threat with satellites, sophisticated eavesdropping devices and surveillance. Now everyone knows what everyone else is doing. The recent war between Armenia and Azerbaijan proved that technology could reduce conflict and collateral damage.

Ignorant science fiction readers constantly get their kickers in a knot when artificial intelligence (AI) is mentioned. Instead of being happy at the progress of technology, they highlight how Boston Dynamics has produced a series of robots that will bring the end of mankind. Such people understand little about economics and productivity. One would go so far as to say that the reruns of Terminator have corrupted their mind to the extent that no logic can work on them. AI’s use is most effective in crunching large data and producing meta-analysis that can be useful. The use of AI in smart decision making, managing repetitive tasks, solving complex problems and enhancing medical science is set-aside and disregarded over science fiction that makes no economic sense.

Technology has provided underprivileged communities with tools needed to  combat systemic  inequalities. One  might  further  argue that  while minorities have historically, always, and inevitably  been underprivileged groups susceptible to  the  prejudices and  discrimination, with today’s technology many groups have become more empowered. These represent an entirely  new set of tools  with which underprivileged groups can finally effectively  contest their  marginalisation.  Social  media,  online learning, and online activism have enabled minority groups to bring attention to their plight, although it might not be significant in bringing immediate change. To say that technology has brought conflict is unfounded. Technology only worsens conflict  because it is unbridled and unregulated, without a strict ethical code  of application and laws  to  prevent its  misuse.  So  long  as  technology and  innovation are coupled with an  effective,  extensive and  comprehensive set  of laws and regulations, its negative impact  can be minimised while the  myriad  of positives it brings  are fully explored and  enjoyed.

There is no doubt that technological development has been  almost  single-handedly  responsible  for  the   astonishing improvement in global  standards of living as witnessed in the  past  three centuries. In itself,  this  has  reduced the  potential for  conflict,  because outright war is disincentivised in a time of material comfort that  risks ruination were  conflict  and  disruption to  arise.  Technology has not worsened conflict.

Technology has had a negative impact on people’s skills? Discuss.

Without a doubt, technology has majorly impacted skills of people in the world. While the progress of technology is important, people should be careful in not being overly-reliant on it.

Human beings have always discovered and invented devices and machines for their convenience. Today, technology has taken an important place in people’s life and has made their lives easier. However, with technology, there are also problems that have risen. Machines which were created for helping humans, have made humans lazy, unskilled and redundant. Today people are overly-reliant on technology. Though many skills have been replaced by technology, there are new skills which have gained prominence today. Hence, technology has a negative impact on people’s skills.

Automation has led people to lack many skills and has caused their role to minimise in many industries. In manufacturing, from making the dough for different cookies, to cutting them in different shapes and packing them, all tasks are now performed by machines and robots. In aviation, pilots use the auto-pilot function and use electronic interface to control the flight. The pilot’s role today is limited and skills required to become a pilot have reduced significantly. With so much being done by machines, it is a logical conclusion technology has a negative impact on people’s skills.

New and advanced technology has attracted people to games that involve virtual reality and advanced graphics. Unlike earlier times, where people, especially children took time to go out and play sports like cricket, badminton or swimming, children today are glued to their Playstation, X-box, computer screens and mobile games. In today’s times it is getting difficult to find young players who are genuinely interested in playing sports as opposed to just playing sports for fame and money.  Technology has given rise to new forms of sports as e-sports but these sports are not considered as sports by many because, who play these sports do not have great skills and are of little value in the real world. While playing real sports like football and tennis may build character and give one confidence, electronic sports do not provide any such benefit. Therefore, technology has also had an impact in sports creating a negative impact on people’s skills.

Technology has also impacted people’s soft skills and communication skills. Smartphones have given people a platform to connect with people from across the world however, people have lost their ability to communicate with people with mindfully and articulately. This is evident from the chat language people use in their daily communication. For example, using just “gn” for good night, “tc” for take care and “gbu” for god bless you. Similarly, people’s friendships today are limited to the extent of liking and commenting on a picture. It can thus be said that the art of communication has been lost significantly in present times. Applications like Twitter, have given people a stage to put forth their view but it has also made them intolerant towards other people’s views. People today are quick in jumping to conclusions and make their judgements based on limited facts, which sometimes are even fake. It can be said that technology has made people lose their reasoning skills and degraded human relationships, in turn. Therefore, technology has also had a negative impact on people’s skills and the ability to communicate rationally.

Though supporters of technology often say that people have replaced older skills with newer skills. They argue that people today are more well-versed in technology-based applications. However, these skills are not as intricate and lack in finesse as well. In earlier times people used to create handicrafts and painting with hand but with technology all that has changed. Skills like stitching, embroidering, fact-checking and map reading are being forgotten in our technological driven world.

Without a doubt, technology has majorly impacted skills of people in the world. While the progress of technology is important, people should be careful in not being overly-reliant on it. Over-reliance on technology will only lead to deterioration of people’s skills be it in the field of labour, communication or social interaction. Technology has had a negative impact on the skills of people.