Advantages and Disadvantages of the Modern World
Introduction
Technology and devices have just as many advantages in our lives, as it does disadvantages.
We tend to focus on the bad aspects of technological advancements, due to the serious effects it can lead to. But this can begin to overshadow how the usage of technology can equally have a positive effect on our lives and mental health.
This article will discuss how technology and devices can be both a boon (blessing) and a curse on modern society. How does it affect our mental health?
Advances in Technology
The advancement of technology has benefited many fields of work. From medical, finance, construction, to fashion and media. The list goes on.
As technology continues to grow, so does their usage.
Each field uses the development of technology to advance their knowledge, availability, access, and to replicate information and products. It has also improved defences, both virtually and physically.
How do the various fields use technology:
Medical –
Medicine prescription development has become more efficient and accurate, due to the assistance of technology. Surgeons are now able to carry out operations with more precision, because medical equipment has improved over time. Doctors are also able to access patient information more conveniently.
Due to the progression of technology, access to medical studies and practices is more readily available for browsing.
Finance –
Technology has enabled banks to operate on online platforms, an extension from depositing in person.
Through the internet and via apps. Transfers, deposits, and paying the bills, can now all be done online.
The option of online loans, lending schemes and other alternative finances, has also improved, via the development in technology.
Construction –
The growth of technology has made a significant impact on construction.
With the assistance of cloud computing and advanced application, we are now able to shorten the building process. This allows for more efficient and safer production of products, than previous years.
Fashion –
This industry has also seen change due to the advancement of technology. Technology has further developed communication, so that sharing ideas, trends and consumer preferences has become easier to collect and discuss.
Additionally, technological advancement has made it easier for consumers to visualise clothes, through the use of virtual fitting rooms. Accurate measurement recommendations and various outfit designs, that help you choose what suits you best.
Media –
Media has developed and spread with the use of technology.
Before, media consisted of newspapers, cable services, DVD’s and CD’s. However, now people can have access to a variety of content, via apps, subscription services, and the internet.
Security –
The security industry has benefited from the advancement of technology, through many ways.
One instance, was through security camera systems, which are now commonly seen used in home residences and small businesses. Before, these systems were only used for secure facilities.
The advances of technology have allowed for high resolution imagery, wireless recording, night vision, motion detection, and much more.
Hospitality –
Hospitality includes travel and lodging accommodations.
Instead of arranging flights and lodging through their travel agent, or directly, people are now able to book and reserve through online platforms.
Lifestyle –
Technology has had an impact on how people live their lives. Some devices were made for leisure, and other devices make things easier to do.
E.g., Smart home devices are systems that can control appliances by sound, or word. Speaker systems can play music of any kind, and have features like surround sound.
As technology advances, so will the creation and improvement of lifestyle devices.
Retail –
Technology is expanding the scope of business in the retail industry.
Some stores opt out of selling through physical stores, and sell only though online platforms, and apps. Others would have a brick-and-mortar store, and expand onto online platforms and apps.
Online stores enable for more exposure to their products and company. Their influence can even go abroad at times.
Technology and Devices
Technological progression, also indicates the creation and improvement of devices.
Devices are defined as objects created for a purpose, typically composed of mechanical material, or electronic composites.
Technology and electronic / mechanical machinery assist each other in improving overall performance. Instruments, by identifying what is lacking and technology, through implementing designs and refining to offset, or remove the lack in the device.
Devices have continued to develop in a direction that assists in the progression of society and everyday life.
Devices are used to assist, record, measure, for leisure, and convenience.
Some examples of common, everyday devices are: phones, computers, TV’s, ovens, cookers, and dishwashers.
Positives – Technology, Devices and Mental Health
There are many reasons why technology is good for your mental health:
- E-Learning – Engagement of interactive learning online
- Online Medical Documentation – Preserving patient data, so that they can get the correct help when needed
- Internet – Staying connected with others, updates on news
- Productivity applications – Healthcare apps and journals that keep track of your health.
- Communication – Text, video calls, phone calls. Ways to interact with people. Business and personal. Especially helpful for emergencies, or talking to a health professional from home.
- Mobile Phones – Can search up information. Updates and news can reach them faster.
- Social Media – If used properly, can gain information on current news, fashion, food, and more. When used right, it can help some people earn an income.
- Lifestyle and convenience – Some technology and devices are created to make life better and easier. E.g., Transport, medicine, grocery, shopping, money transactions.
Negatives – Technology, Devices and Mental Health
There are some downsides to technology as there are upsides:
- Isolation – Dependency on technology can cause the person to feel isolated. Continuous exposure to social media can make them feel alone.
- Stress and Depression – Social networks and connections. Those who have fewer connections and conversations on social media, can begin to exhibit negative emotions. Comparing themselves to people who have no problem building connections, they may feel depressed and conflicted.
- Emotional damage – Social media and unhealthy image portrayal. Usually, social media platforms focus only on the good, not the bad. By only seeing the positives, and comparing it to their own lives, it causes discomfort, or alienation to arise.
There is also deception on social media, where people are not who they portray themselves to be. This is most harmful to young children and teens. Privacy can be at stake.
These can lead to social and emotional issues and distrust.
- Attention Span – Low attention span, due to technology.
- Bullying – Cyber bullying has become rampant, with the advances in technology.
In normal cases, one cannot access the real identity of the account, causing people to leave negative and hurtful comments. This can have an effect on the person’s mental health, but per confidentiality, they feel they do not need to take responsibility.
- Access to restricted content – Unfortunately, drugs, violence and other such content, are accessible everywhere on the internet.
There are no restrictions, so if you are not careful, children may also access these sites. This is why parental controls are so important, because you will be able to choose what your child can and cannot view on the internet.
