Past

Smartphones: The End of the Individual?

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This class has passed

What’s it all about

There is no question that technology has changed massively over the last few decades, but has it changed us in the process?

For better and worse, we no longer communicate the way we used to and this trend isn’t slowing down any time soon. With the rise of smartphones and digitalisation we have become more connected online, but more isolated in reality.

As our ability to communicate with each other becomes faster, easier and increasing virtual, some big questions arise. What will happen to us as individuals? What can we continue to claim? For how much longer can you truly remain just you?

What will we cover?

In this class we will consider recent trends in communications technology. This includes the effects of smartphones on society and the likely future directions.

Advances such as smartphones bring amazing benefits along with some unique problems. Changes in technology also have social, political, economic and psychological implications. We’ll think about how these might affect humanity and how they might change into the future.

Finally, the workshop will consider some of the options for dealing with arising challenges, and will weigh up the pros and cons of each.

Who will be teaching?

Gordon Young is a professional ethicist and environmental consultant. He is a lecturer in Professional Ethics at RMIT, Principle at Ethilogical Consulting and writer at theethicsof.com, where he explores a new topic each week.