Ethics

In the present times, technology has made a quantum leap, with augmented reality, blockchain, artificial intelligence, etc., being just a few examples of the most recent inventions. Though we are getting used to these advancements and using them on a large scale, it is important to evaluate the impact of these technologies on the values of the modern society.
Role of technology in enhancing the values in a modern society:

• Citizen-centric governance: Technology is increasingly being used in governance at all levels. E-governance can improve transparency, check leakages in service delivery, and reduce corruption. For example, direct benefit transfers, e-auctions, etc.
• Enabling a more inclusive society: Technology has the potential to bridge gaps and make essential services, information, and opportunities more accessible to a broader population. For example, tribal communities in remote areas can access education, financial services, etc.
• Enhanced freedom: Social media and other online platforms have empowered individuals and communities to express their opinions and connect with a larger audience, thereby giving a voice to the marginalized groups. For instance, the LGBTQI+ community in India uses social media to voice its concerns and raise awareness on important issues.
• Promoting compassion: Technology also helps promote philanthropic causes through mechanisms like crowdfunding, social media platforms, etc.

However, technology can also have negative impacts on the values of a modern society, such as:

• Use of persuasive technology: Persuasive technology is being designed to exploit the innate psychological vulnerabilities of users to make them spend more money on e-commerce websites or spend more time on social media websites. In this context, the Department of Consumer Affairs has raised concerns regarding the menace of ‘dark patterns’ on digital platforms.
• Increase inequalities: Artificial intelligence (AI) will enhance efficiency with regard to work but will also lead to job losses. The revenues of the companies will grow, which can be further invested in technology, thus accelerating the inequality. Also, algorithmic biases in Al can perpetuate existing inequalities and discrimination.
• Breach of individual privacy: Technology infringes on personal privacy and privacy of communication. It makes it extremely easy to follow people and intrude in their lives through surveillance. Increased use of technology has also led to online harassment of women, cyberbullying of children, etc.
• Reinforce negative stereotypes: Technology can inadvertently reinforce negative stereotypes prevalent in the society and lead to the spread of misinformation to incite communal riots, defame individuals, etc.
• Impact on emotional intelligence: Online gaming is often criticised for temper fluctuating and erosion of social skills due to the requirement of aggressive attitude in the game performance.
• Unethical practices: Disruptive technologies like gene-editing have opened a window for unethical medical practices like designer babies.

Technology has many advantages, but at the same time, it poses important questions regarding the nature in which it is being is used. Hence, it is important to create strong regulatory mechanisms to promote ethical use of technology and prevent its misuse.