The Ethical Use of Technology: Addressing Modern Challenges
Technology has revolutionized nearly every aspect of modern life, but its usage is often marred by ethical concerns. This article addresses the responsible and ethical use of technology, highlighting the issues with current practices and proposing a new direction for its application.
Current Utilization of Technology
Today, technology is primarily leveraged under the guise of capitalism, chiefly for the purpose of generating profit for shareholders or venture capitalists. This approach has led to significant advancements, including integrated circuits, the Internet, solar photovoltaics, and numerous other important innovations. Nevertheless, the foundation of these technologies was initially funded and developed through public resources, predominantly by the American taxpayer, during the 50s, 60s, and 70s. These advancements were primarily aimed at solving strategic problems related to space exploration and military operations, which were critical during the Cold War era.
The Issues with Current Practices
While technology has undeniably brought about tremendous benefits, there are several challenges with its current use. Firstly, the primary focus is on generating profit rather than addressing pressing societal needs. Secondly, the ethical implications of widespread technological adoption are often overlooked, leading to potential negative consequences. For example, a harmless windmill used on a farm can transform into a significant issue when deployed on a vast scale, impacting the environment and local communities. It is crucial to consider the long-term impacts and potential risks associated with technological advancements.
Proposed Changes and Solutions
Given the evolving set of societal challenges, there is a need to reassess the role of technology and venture capital. Andrew Yang’s book, “Smart People Should Build Things”, offers valuable insights on the importance of focusing on innovation and new technology. I advocate for a more proactive government role as a venture capitalist, investing in disruptive technology companies and reaping the rewards of these ventures. This approach should include a mix of patient capital and ownership stakes, rather than a purely financial partnership.
The Need for a Diverse Career Path
The current trend of highly skilled graduates entering career paths such as management consulting, finance, medicine, law, or Teach for America is concerning. In his book, Andrew Yang argues that there is an imbalance in talent allocation, with too few students pursuing entrepreneurship and innovation. This situation not only stifles job creation but also hinders progress on important societal issues. Encouraging more students to consider startup culture and innovation could lead to more significant and impactful solutions.
Considerations for Ethical Technology Usage
To ensure the ethical use of technology, it is essential to carefully evaluate both the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the total costs—economic, social, and environmental. The potential effects of technology should be thoroughly examined, with both positive and negative outcomes considered. This approach is akin to the philosophical explorations found in science fiction, where the consequences of technological advancement are meticulously analyzed. For instance, concerns over automated vehicle hacking, the theft of body parts, cheap weapons of mass destruction, and even hypothetical scenarios like the USA being run by a church have been explored in fiction for decades.
Conclusion
The ethical use of technology is a multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration and a balanced approach. By shifting the focus from short-term profit to addressing societal needs and fostering innovation, we can ensure that technology serves to improve our lives and societies. Additionally, encouraging a diverse range of career paths for highly skilled graduates can contribute to a more robust and innovative technological landscape.