Earlier developments in technology brought more benefits to change the lives of ordinary people than recent ones do now. Do you agree or disagree?

 

The pace of technological advancements in the last few decades has been astonishing. From the invention of the internet to smartphones and the rise of Artificial Intelligence, technology has transformed how we live, work, and communicate. However, some argue that earlier developments in technology brought more benefits to change the lives of ordinary people than recent ones do now. In this essay, I will argue that this statement is both true and false, depending on how one defines "benefits" and "ordinary people."

It is true that earlier developments in technology brought significant benefits that have changed the lives of ordinary people in unprecedented ways. For example, the invention of the printing press in the 15th century made it possible to mass-produce books, thereby making knowledge accessible to the masses. This led to the rise of the middle class, the spread of literacy, and the democratization of knowledge. Similarly, the industrial revolution of the 18th and 19th centuries brought about a series of technological breakthroughs that improved the standard of living for ordinary people. The invention of the steam engine, for instance, made transportation faster and more affordable, while the spinning jenny and power loom revolutionized the textile industry, making clothes cheaper and more accessible.

However, it would be wrong to say that recent technological developments have not brought significant benefits to ordinary people. The internet, for example, has created a global platform for communication, education, and commerce, bringing people together from all corners of the world. Social media has allowed people to connect with friends and family across long distances, while e-commerce platforms have made it easier and more convenient to buy goods and services. Moreover, recent technological advancements in healthcare, such as the development of vaccines and life-saving medical equipment, have significantly improved the quality of life for ordinary people.

Moreover, it is essential to acknowledge that the benefits of technological advancements are not evenly distributed. While some people may have access to the latest technology and reap its benefits, others may not. This is particularly true in developing countries, where access to technology is often limited, and the digital divide remains a significant challenge. Therefore, when we talk about the benefits of technology for "ordinary people," we must recognize that not all ordinary people have the same opportunities to benefit from technological advancements.

In conclusion, it is true that earlier developments in technology brought significant benefits that changed the lives of ordinary people. However, recent technological advancements have also brought significant benefits that have transformed the way we live, work, and communicate. Therefore, it would be wrong to say that one is more important than the other. Rather, we must recognize that technological advancements have brought benefits and challenges, and we must work to ensure that these benefits are accessible to all, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.