Technology is a broad term that can be used to describe any tool of use to humans, from simple utensils to complex machines. It can also be used to refer to systems or methods of organisation that help people work more efficiently.
Modern technology is incredibly useful – but it can also be dangerous, disruptive and unsettling. It’s important to understand the implications of each new invention, so that we can make informed decisions about how we use it.
Technology has revolutionised the way we live and work. Rather than the traditional model of a long commute and a strict eight hours in the office, more and more of us now work remotely or as part of the ‘gig economy’. It is easier than ever to communicate with colleagues and customers around the world, making it possible to work from home and fit a business around family commitments.
There are also huge improvements in how we consume entertainment – whether it’s online gaming or streaming a movie on Netflix. It’s possible to train for a new job without leaving home thanks to online learning, and there is an increasing appetite for information that can be accessed easily.
Technology also plays a critical role in healthcare, with devices now being implanted into patients to monitor vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure, and to detect any early signs of illness. The Global Positioning System, or GPS, is another example of modern technology that allows us to navigate the globe with a single device.