Rubric Assessment Behs 103 6980 Technology In Contemporary ✓ Solved
6262019 Rubric Assessment Behs 103 6980 Technology In Contemporary
Compare the choices and decisions that different contemporary societies face concerning technological development, technological equity, economics, and the environment related to your topic. Include at least two scholarly references and ensure that references are properly cited with no obvious writing errors.
Paper For Above Instructions
In today's rapidly evolving world, technology has a profound impact on various aspects of contemporary society. Different societies face unique decisions regarding technological development, equity, the economy, and the environment, which need to be examined to understand their implications fully. This paper compares these choices while highlighting the significance of technological advancements and their consequences on society.
Technological Development Choices
Technological development choices vary significantly across different societies. For instance, in advanced economies such as the United States, there is a strong emphasis on innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data. These technologies are utilized to enhance productivity and economic growth. However, with such advancements comes a challenge of ensuring equitable access to technology. Societies must confront the digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to modern technology and those who do not (Norris, 2001).
In contrast, developing countries may prioritize technology that addresses immediate needs, such as renewable energy sources and mobile communications. For example, in several African nations, mobile banking has revolutionized economic transactions, allowing individuals without bank accounts to access financial services (Donner & Tellez, 2008). The approach to technological development reflects the respective societies' goals and challenges, whether it be fostering economic growth or improving living standards.
Technological Equity and Access
Technological equity is a crucial consideration for various societies as they grapple with the implications of technological disparity. In countries that have embraced technology, such as South Korea and Finland, there is an emphasis on providing universal access to the internet and digital education (OECD, 2015). This commitment to equality facilitates a more informed and engaged populace, enabling citizens to thrive in the digital age.
Conversely, regions lacking investment in technology education and infrastructure, such as parts of rural India and Guatemala, face significant barriers to equity. Limited access to information and communication technology (ICT) impedes social mobility and economic development (Bhavnani et al., 2008). Thus, decisions surrounding technological equity profoundly affect societal growth and development.
Economic Implications
The economic implications of technological choices are manifold. On one hand, technology can drive growth by improving efficiencies in various industries, leading to increased productivity and job opportunities (Brynjolfsson & McAfee, 2014). Industries that effectively leverage technology experience enhanced competitiveness and profitability.
On the other hand, as automation and AI penetrate labor markets, there is a risk of job displacement. This situation provokes important societal questions concerning the need for retraining programs and proactive policies that protect workers from the adverse effects of rapid technological change. Countries must consider their economic structures when making decisions related to technology, ensuring that they balance innovation with the well-being of their workforce (Autor & Salomons, 2018).
Environmental Considerations
Environmental sustainability is another critical area in which societies must navigate their technological choices. The adoption of green technologies is necessary to combat climate change and promote environmental stewardship. Countries like Denmark and Germany have invested substantially in renewable energy sources, demonstrating that technological advancement can align with ecological preservation (IEA, 2019).
However, not all countries have the luxury of pursuing sustainable technology. Many developing nations continue to depend heavily on fossil fuels due to financial constraints and resource availability, leading to significant environmental degradation. As such, decision-makers in these societies are faced with the dilemma of addressing immediate economic needs while also considering the long-term environmental impact of their technological choices (Sovacool, 2013).
Conclusion
The choices and decisions concerning technological development, equity, economics, and environmental sustainability are intricate and multifaceted. Different contemporary societies encounter these dilemmas through diverse lenses shaped by their unique circumstances. Addressing these issues requires a balanced approach that promotes innovation while ensuring accessibility, economic equity, and environmental responsibility. Understanding the interplay between these factors is critical for fostering a more equitable and sustainable future as technology continues to evolve.
References
- Autor, D. H., & Salomons, A. (2018). Is automation labor-displacing? Productivity growth, employment, and the labor share. American Economic Association.
- Bhavnani, A., Won, S. K., & Waverman, L. (2008). The impact of mobile phone coverage on educational outcomes: Evidence from rural India. Information Economics and Policy, 20(3), 271-289.
- Brynjolfsson, E., & McAfee, A. (2014). The Second Machine Age: Work, Progress, and Prosperity in a Time of Brilliant Technologies. W. W. Norton & Company.
- Donner, J., & Tellez, C. (2008). Mobile banking and economic development: Linking adoption, impact, and use. Asian Journal of Communication, 18(4), 318-332.
- International Energy Agency (IEA). (2019). Renewables 2019. IEA.
- Norris, P. (2001). Digital Divide: Civic Engagement, Information Poverty, and the Internet Worldwide. Cambridge University Press.
- OECD. (2015). Skills for a Digital World. OECD Publishing.
- Sovacool, B. K. (2013). Energy and poverty: A review of the evidence and implications for the clean development mechanism. Environmental Science & Policy, 33, 99-110.
- Heaton, B. (2012). Operation: Mind Crime. Government Technology, 25(11), 34-38.