By Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon
“TECHNOLOGY is a double-edged sword, it can be a powerful tool for progress or a dangerous weapon in the wrong hands.”
In today’s world, technology has become an integral part of our lives, bringing with it numerous benefits and conveniences. However, as with anything, there are also downsides to this rapid advancement. As the great philosopher and poet Allama Iqbal warned us in his poem,
“Diyari Magrib ke rehne walo! Khuda ki basti dukan nahi hai. Khara jise tum samajh rahe ho, wo ab zar-e-kam aiyar ho ga. Tumhari tehzeeb apne khanjar se aap khudkushi karegi, Jo shaakh-e-nazuk pe aashiyaana bane ga, napayedaar ho ga.”
This powerful verse by Allama Iqbal warns us of the consequences of a culture of violence and aggression. The poet reminds us that the world is not a marketplace for power and domination, but a sacred abode of the divine. When we perceive it as a mere commodity to be exploited for our own benefit, we lose sight of its true worth and become blind to the fragile beauty of life.
The poet goes on to caution us that our civilization, which prides itself on its technological prowess and military might, may ultimately destroy itself with its own weapons. The use of the word “khanjar” (dagger) evokes a sense of danger and destruction, suggesting that our own tools of war may turn against us and lead to our own self-destruction.
This warning is especially relevant in light of historical events such as the devastating atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As we continue to pursue technological advancement and military might, we must remember that our civilization’s ultimate success or failure depends not on the power of our weapons, but on our ability to cultivate a culture of empathy, compassion, and respect for all life.
Technology has made our lives easier, faster, and more efficient. We can connect with anyone, anywhere, and anytime with just a click of a button. It has revolutionized the way we communicate, work, and live. Technology has brought people together and has made the world a smaller place.
In terms of its uses, technology has played a vital role in various sectors such as healthcare, education, and business. It has helped improve the quality of healthcare, provided access to education, and has made businesses more productive and profitable. Additionally, technology has enabled us to explore space, understand our planet, and has facilitated scientific advancements.
However, with the merits come the issues of misuse and overuse. Technology addiction is becoming a growing concern, and it has become a source of distraction and disconnection in our daily lives.
People are becoming more reliant on technology, and it is leading to a lack of face-to-face interactions and social skills. Furthermore, cybercrime and hacking have become rampant, and data breaches have become more frequent.
Despite the potential hazards, it is crucial to appreciate the positive impact of technology. It is essential to use it wisely, knowing when to disconnect and when to connect. It is important to recognize that technology is a tool and not a replacement for human connection.
“Technology is only as good as the intentions behind it, let us use it for the greater good.” It is essential to use technology with caution, understanding its potential benefits and drawbacks.
Certainly! There are many countries that are leading the way in technology and innovation. For example, Japan is known for its advanced robotics and AI, which has been used to improve healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing. South Korea has also made significant advancements in technology, particularly in the fields of electronics and telecommunications.
In the United States, Silicon Valley is known as a hub for technology and innovation, with companies like Google, Apple, and Facebook leading the charge. These companies have revolutionized the way we interact with technology and have made our lives more connected and convenient.
However, there are also concerns about the use of technology for military purposes. Countries like the United States, Russia, and China have been criticized for their investments in military technology, including drones, cyber warfare, and other advanced weapons.
Bottom line: Technology Day serves as a reminder to appreciate the benefits of technology while also recognizing the potential pitfalls that come with its misuse. We must also be mindful of the potential hazards and use technology responsibly to ensure that we strike a balance between the advantages and disadvantages.
Overall, Technology Day is a reminder that technology is a tool that can be used to make human life better. By continuing to innovate and improve technology, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations.
As we celebrate Technology Day, let us reflect on how we can use technology for the greater good and how we can prevent its misuse. Let us strive to use technology responsibly and to promote a culture of empathy, compassion, and respect for all life. By doing so, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.
The future of technology is not predetermined, it is up to us to shape it for the betterment of society. Let us use technology to create a more just and equitable world, where everyone has access to the benefits of technological advancements, and where technology is used to uplift humanity, rather than to exploit or harm it.
The author is a columnist and educator
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