Day 6

Today during our lecture we got to see a lot of different types of concepts for new inventions. This eventually led to our long discussion on the ethics of new technologies. There was a lot of talk about new inventions eventually leading to dangerous weapons or the destruction of the human race, but I also thought it would be important to think about the smaller side effects of new inventions. While it would be kind of ridiculous to think that any small new item could lead to the death of all humans, it would not so out there to consider the smaller effects on human behavior. For example, the use of cell phones have lead to a both an increase and a break down in human communication. Although now we can talk to any of our friends at any time or location, we tend to talk less to the people around us. If I was on a long bus ride, I would probably use my cell phone to call a friend to pass the time. However if they didn’t exist, I would have probably tried to strike up a conversation with the person seated next to me. The invention of a cell phone might have cost the loss of new acquaintances and friends. Futhermore, the invention of texting has probably led to less talking too. People now result to just sending short, simplified messages rather than holding an actual conversation.

Nevertheless, I beleve that these inventions are very beneficial. I personally think the pros usually outweigh the cons, yet I think that we should still be aware of the negative consequences on society, no matter how small or subtle. The cell phone has probably saved lives in emergency situations or just made everyday life easier, but it has affected social behaivor in what can be considered negative ways.

I think that our fears shouldn’t get in the way of new ideas and creations, but that we should always consider the possibilities and risks before inventing anything new. It’s hard to define the line between what is ethical or not, and while I don’t have any answers, I think that it is a topic of discusson that should never end as we get imput from all people of different experiences, careers, and generations.