Can We Have Too Much Technology?

Technology does not only helps us live longer, but it also entertains us, completes tedious tasks for us, and allows us to communicate with each other more efficiently than ever before.

For most people fully immersed in the digital age, technology is nothing short of the ideal solution to all of the world’s problems. However, it also has some disadvantages. Even today, using mobile devices and computers can lead to issues with eyesight and posture.

A part of insomnia cases might also be a side effect of our technological growth. After all, the blue light emitted by our smartphones and computer screens is known to suppress the release of melatonin. On the other hand, more technology might be just what we need to slow down climate change or extend our lifespan.

With a hyper-connected future right around the corner, it is high time to ask ourselves: can we have too much technology?

The Benefits of Technology

Technology has made our lives a lot easier. For example, thanks to mobile devices and smartphones, the most isolated tribes in the world can now communicate with each other via social media or phone calls. This kind of immediate communication medium that technology offers is especially helpful when it comes to basic health care and weather alerts. Simply put, it is one of the things that can save people’s lives.

Other examples of useful inventions include automated vehicles, which are expected to dramatically reduce traffic-related deaths, or solar-powered street lights, which have already reduced crime rates in some areas. Even something as simple as sites offering coupons like couponninja.com is beneficial to a lot of people struggling to make ends meet.

Websites like Airbnb have also changed how we travel: instead of spending thousands on hotels, we can now rent an entire apartment for less money! Not to mention that it increases our level of privacy during holidays.

These are just a few examples of how technology has improved our lives in so many different ways. It is no wonder that many people strongly believe that technological progress is inevitable and will bring us closer to a better future.

The Disadvantages of Technology

While it is easy to get carried away by the excitement of new technologies and their ability to change the world, we should not forget that they are a double-edged sword.

Nowadays, everyone seems to be glued to their smartphone or tablet all day long. It creates a feeling of hunger for constant updates and news, which leads to anxiety and depression when we don’t get what we want. Similarly, seeing our friends’ (filtered) lives on Facebook might make us feel stuck in our own boring routine, further deteriorating our mental health.

More importantly, people may have more problems concentrating on one task at a time, as they are bombarded with new messages and notifications every few seconds. As a result, technology might be seen as a distracting force that makes us either forget about real-life problems or constantly think about them.

Another common problem is caused by artificial light, which alters our circadian rhythms, making it hard for us to fall asleep at night. Many studies show that technology use negatively affects sleep quality by reducing REM and slow-wave sleep stages (important phases for memory consolidation).

On top of that, excessive use of electronic devices can cause attention-deficit hyper-activity disorder (ADHD), affecting both children and adults alike. Increased use of digital devices frequently causes problems with eyesight and posture. In the same vein, the excessive use of electronic devices can cause more stress if you fail to unplug from time to time.

Furthermore, many technologies are manufactured in countries that do not adhere to ethical standards and require tons of resources to operate, most of which are non-renewable (e.g., fossil fuels). It puts a significant strain on our economy, preventing government officials from making an immediate switch to greener alternatives.

How to Avoid the Negative Effects of Technology?

Experts agree that technology is here to stay, and it is generally a good thing. Even with all of its disadvantages, we can still use it for the greater good. However, just like any other power we have at our disposal, it can be abused. Fortunately, while the in-your-face technology is often unavoidable, there are steps you can take to avoid the negative side effects.

For starters, you can use digital detox breaks — moments when you completely detach yourself from all digital devices. Doing this will allow you to focus on the things that matter most without sacrificing the fun of technology altogether.

The next thing you should do is ensure that you are taking enough time to relax and enjoy the things in your life. If you can’t manage to do so, the chances are that your tech devices will start negatively affecting your health.

Another thing you might want to do is limit your screen time to two hours a day. It will work wonders for your eyesight and help you lead a more active social life. Plus, it will provide you with additional time to spend with your family and friends — in real life, not the virtual world.

With these simple steps, you can continue enjoying all the benefits of modern technology without having to worry about its adverse effects.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to technology, many people claim there is no such thing as too much. Nonetheless, even though new technologies help us in so many different ways, they also pose some dangers to our physical and mental health.

The key to a healthy relationship with technology is being aware that the excess of it can negatively affect our lives. If you think you are spending too much time using electronic devices, take a break! Try to unplug from time to time, or at least make sure that you get enough sleep each night and don’t neglect other areas of your daily life.

Overall, it is important to remember that technology is neutral in itself. It is up to us to decide how we want to use it. Interact with technological devices wisely, and you will reap the benefits it provides while avoiding potential issues.