Computer and Society
Today, we find mostly positive as well as some negative impacts of computers on society. Computers are used in sensitive areas like civil aviation, banking, insurance, public transportation, national defense, and other similar fields. Needless to say, it is a machine that slavishly follows instructions given by the user. If the user gives wrong instructions to the computer, there is a chance of accidents, which may result in loss of life and property.
Computers are used to provide better service in sectors like banking, airline reservations, insurance, and even for producing higher quality products like automatic parts. They are also used to provide decision-makers, also called expert systems, with accurate, up-to-date information to support better business decisions.
Computers are used to monitor instruments in process control applications, relieving humans from repetitive tasks and enabling them to focus on more creative work. A computer can provide round-the-clock attention to patients, freeing nurses for other duties. In teaching environments, the computer can act as a patient and attentive disseminator of information. Not least, computers can provide hours of fun through a fascinating range of games.
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Computers: Benefits and Limitations
It may seem that computers bring only benefits and efficiency, but this is not entirely true. Computers are tools and, like all tools, can be used for advantage or abused. Many microcomputers have not lived up to their promises, causing disappointment.
The introduction of computers in workplaces has caused unemployment and apprehension among workers. Errors in computer systems have caused hardship and inconvenience to individuals. Unless properly monitored, computer systems also pose a threat to the privacy of ordinary citizens. There is a cloud behind the silver lining, but awareness of potential risks can help minimize harm.
Impact on Employment
Many argue that computers have caused unemployment. However, computers have also created new jobs such as Programmer, Data Entry Operator, Network Administrator, System Analyst, DBA, CAD Designer, and more.
Once computers are built, a variety of personnel are needed to make them useful:
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Systems Analysts – analyze and design computer systems
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Programmers – implement designs
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Computer Operators – manage day-to-day operations
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Data Entry Operators – prepare data for processing
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Data Processing Managers and Supervisors – ensure smooth running of systems
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Teachers – educate people about computers
The computer industry has also introduced jobs in manufacturing, like chip production. Initially, cheap female labor was employed in California, later moving to Asia (Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines). While these jobs provide income, they can cause social and psychological problems in societies traditionally dominated by men.
Workers in repetitive manufacturing jobs have often been replaced by robots, and even skilled office jobs are increasingly automated. In banking, cash point machines threaten clerical jobs. Mass unemployment can cause financial hardship, psychological stress, social tension, and even societal unrest.
Automated Production
Factory managers often face the challenge of reducing production costs to stay competitive. Automation through computers can increase production and efficiency. Robots can work long shifts, perform precise tasks, and handle dangerous jobs in mining or chemical industries. While automation may reduce hazardous work, it also displaces employees, forcing societies to choose the lesser of two evils: some unemployment or lower productivity.
Privacy
People in democratic societies value privacy and want control over their personal information. Consent should be required before data is shared, sold, or used for purposes other than initially intended. For example, it is fine for a doctor to maintain medical records but not to share them with a prospective employer without permission.
Computerized files magnify privacy risks, as data can be accessed, shared, or analyzed more easily. The threat to individual privacy is far greater than with manual files.
Information Sharing
Governments, private companies, and research organizations have been collecting data about individuals for decades. Previously, data was stored in manual filing systems, limiting cross-referencing and retrieval. Computerization allows mass storage, cross-referencing, and faster access, but also increases the potential misuse of personal information.
Conclusion
Computers have transformed society in profound ways. They have increased efficiency, improved services, created new job opportunities, and enabled automation in hazardous work. At the same time, they have caused job displacement, privacy concerns, and social challenges.
The key lies in responsible use, monitoring, and awareness. By understanding both the benefits and risks, society can leverage computers to improve productivity and quality of life while minimizing negative consequences.