We're always "on" – constantly, wherever we go. Is this a blessing or a curse? What do you think?
Digital technologies are shaping our lives – constantly, wherever we go. We're always "on" – at home, at work, on the go and even when we're trying to relax. For some people, digitization is a blessing, because it makes life simpler, faster, more diverse, more efficient – in short, just about better in every way. For others, it's a curse, because it stifles individuality, boosts stress, compromises our security and enslaves us to never-ending optimization. What do you think? Take a closer look, and decide for yourself! Here's an overview of the opportunities and risks, illustrated with representative contexts, that can serve as a guide.
I. Always on |
| Pro | Contra |
Say hello: It's never been easier to stay in touch with family and friends, no matter where they are.
Let me entertain you: We can watch movies and play games anytime and anywhere.
Work where you want: Ubiquitous data access gives us a wealth of new options for structuring our working lives. | Give me a break! When we never go offline and are always available, we never get any real rest.
Security! Just how safe are my data in the cloud?
Tracked! In using apps, I may (unwittingly) be disclosing too much of my personal data. |
II. Quantified Self |
| Pro | Contra |
Get going! Get fitness apps and finally get in shape.
Compete! It's fun and motivating to challenge your friends.
Be healthy! Get a healthy lifestyle and save on your health insurance. | Patronized! Look, I'm a lover of life, and you want to turn me into a mindless fitness junkie!
Under pressure: Are we going along just because of social pressures?
Economize! Maybe the insurance companies are getting more out of our data than we are! |
III. Smart Home |
| Pro | Contra |
Be efficient! Welcome to the smart home, where it's easy to save energy.
Individualize! Easy, convenient and full control over your home environment – lights, temperature, blinds...
Be safe! Did you forget to turn off the stove? No problem! You can turn it off remotely. | The trojan home: Maybe this is housewarming for hackers and connectivity for commerce.
Threatened! What happens when all systems are suddenly no go?
A faraway land called "interoperability":Different devices, different systems – can they really talk to each other? |
IV. On the road, on-line |
| Pro | Contra |
Connected to safety: Connected cars make for fewer traffic jams and fewer accidents.
Protect! Less braking and less acceleration mean lower emissions.
Reward! Smart drivers get smart insurance rates. | Be fun? You've taken all the fun out of the open road!
Let machines decide? Hit Johnny to save Sally? Who decides – me, or somebody's algorithm?
Be nudged! Who wants a data-disclosing copilot? |
V. Logistics |
| Pro | Contra |
Deliver: Drones can deliver to the most out-of-the way places.
Act from above! A fast aerial view makes for fast, efficient responses to emergencies.
Widen view! Get new perspectives from the air. | Right, and they're watching you: Both the government and your neighbor can put drones over your house.
Crashed! Drone traffic is becoming an airspace hazard.
They can deliver bad things, too: Now terrorists can attack us with drones. |
