In Information Technology, Its Impact on Society and Its Future, Sagarmay Deb shows how information technology (IT) has revolutionized our society in terms of communications, information gathering, working, educating, and more. Specifically, Deb shows how there are positives and negatives to the growth of information technologies.
Deb argues that information technologies have influenced societal attitudes, customs, and institutions in good and bad ways. First, Deb notes how IT allows people to communicate with others around the world instantaneously; creates new opportunities for learning; and empowers people to work in more convenient ways. Moreover, IT allows workplaces to function in essentially paperless environments and for education instructors to teach students anywhere and at any time. Overall, Deb argues that IT platforms allow for increased convenience for many individuals.
While there are the aforementioned positive developments, Deb also shows how there are dark sides to information technologies. Individuals are at risk for their privacy to be compromised and to suffer from information overload, which harms their comfortability and trust while using IT. Furthermore, individuals can also suffer from stalking and cyber bullying while utilizing digital platforms. In terms of physical and mental health risks, increased access to IT can lead to reduced physical activity and less personal interaction.
The arguments presented in this paper were valid and made sense. It was beneficial to read about Deb’s perspectives on the merits and demerits of implementing IT globally and its implications for the future. In other words, the analysis of both the negatives and positives of IT increased the validity of Deb’s argument. At the end of the paper, Deb notes that he thinks the benefits of IT “far outweigh” the negative aspects of information technologies. I agree with him on this point, but I think it is important to monitor and address the negative effects of IT to ensure that minimal harm is caused.
I agree these positive and negative aspects of information technology. You mentioned that individuals can suffer from stalking and cyber bullying while utilizing digital platforms, and I want to say that not only ordinary people but also idols or celebrities might face cyber bullying. There are some malicious people online and they think they would not take any responsibility for what they said. Some celebrities might be abused by these people and may even suffer mental health problems.