TED KAYSERİ COLLEGE / 11-E
Probable Harms of Digitalization
Büşranur TuRGuT
126
With the arrival of advanced technology , digitalization has become more common than ever . Digital technologies have advanced more rapidly than any innovation in our history - reaching around 50 % of the developing world ’ s population in only two decades and transforming societies . However , in addition to improving societies and evolving humans , it has potential adverse effects on multiple fields .
First of all , digitalization causes many psychological disorders . There is an increasing tendency for people to socialize via digital devices rather than through real-life contact . This can easily lead to a sense of disconnect and isolation . Studies have shown that the lack of human interaction owing to the excessive use of social media has caused numerous mental illnesses in people such as depression and other forms .
Secondly , digital technology means that vast amounts of data can be collected and stored . This can be private information concerning individuals or organizations . It can be very difficult to keep this data safe . Just a single breach can mean vast amounts of private information going into the hands of criminals , business rivals , foreign adversaries or other malign entities .
Moreover , the Internet is a fertile territory for malevolent forces to operate , thanks to its international nature , vast scale and the relative anonymity that users can enjoy . Lastly , reliance upon mobile phones , laptops and other digital gadgets has become common . Many people have all their personal information and data within their phones . Basic living skills , like finding one ’ s way , have been replaced by taking directions from a GPS system .
To conclude , digitalization has started to take away basic skills humans have had for thousands of years . Additionally , digitalization has major inadequacy in terms of security , potentially leaving people aggrieved . Although digitalization has made life simpler and more trouble-free , it has significant potential harms . With all that said , only time will tell what ’ s waiting for us in the future .