Technology Dbq Research Paper

Smartphones, tablets, computers and numerous other forms of technology dominate the modern society in various parts the world. The widespread presence of technology has had an enormous effect on life in this contemporary age. While technology may raise questions about the negative effects it has on social and familial interactions, its benefits far outweigh these few negatives. The effect of technology has been positive on the world as it has resulted in strengthened ties with local communities, created a more balanced society and opened up opportunities that would have otherwise been unavailable without the presence of technology.

While many may think that the internet and rapid growth of technology has locked people behind their computer

As stated by Source D, technology, especially the internet, has resulted in the creation of a “socially unstratified” society, one without layers, tiers, inequity, or specific arrangements or classifications. Technology has stripped society of these labels and instead created one of ability to appear exactly how one wants to, possessing the capability to choose his or her own level of intelligence, weight, age, or occupation. The internet presents a unique opportunity for people to present themselves on their own terms and find places in which they are comfortable and do not face discrimination or ridicule, because they can choose to display themselves as they deem appropriate. Source E develops these arguments a step further, asserting that the internet has the power to “flatten hierarchies, dilute power from traditional elites who monopolize information” (Source E). Not only does the internet balance out the lives of individuals on a personal scale, but in a much larger sense as well, as the internet can put an end to the system of social classes present in hierarchies and remove power from the controlling elitists of the nation who have a strong grip on numerous aspects of daily human life. Source E strongly develops the arguments presented in Source D, showcasing the power of the

Over 90% of individuals aged 18-29 reported usage of the internet, and consequently, about 90% of college graduates reported internet usage as well, indicating that there is a direct relationship between internet usage at a young age and educational success. 40% of non-high school graduates were internet users, and 70% of high-school graduates were also internet users. However, these numbers do not compare to those found amongst college graduates, who found success due to their usage of the internet, which most likely started at a young age as is indicated by the age graph of Source A. This achievement of a degree for these college graduates may not have occurred if it were not for the presence and their usage of the internet. The benefits of technology are not just seen in education, however, as a result of the events of September 11, 2001, the telephone lines of New York City almost universally disappeared with the collapse of crucial communication devices in the downtown New York Area, leaving people unable to contact their friends and family. If there was no way of technological communication, millions of people would have been left unable to contact their loved ones for days, if not weeks. This would have been the case if it were not for the internet, as it enabled millions to make contact with others through the usage of e-mail (Source B). The internet kept New