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New global research from Lenovo has found that technology has the power to make us more understanding, tolerant, charitable and open-minded.
The survey polled more than 15,000 people from the US, Mexico, Brazil, China, India, Japan, UK, Germany, France and Italy, and revealed that 84% in the UK think that technology plays a large role in their day-to-day lives. Meanwhile, 78% of the UK said that technology improves their lives.
Although we might presume the main ways in which technology impacts our lives is by helping us achieve our daily tasks – such as emails, streaming and so on – Lenovo’s research has found that in many cases, technology is actually having a strong impact on our human values.
For example, 30% of UK respondents believe smart devices such as PCs, tablets, smartphones and VR are making people more open-minded and tolerant.
It is likely that the rise of social media and video sharing platforms are key to this, allowing people to connect with those from other countries and cultures, gaining an insight into their lives through social posts, blogs, vlogs, video and other content.
The window into the world of other peoples’ lives through technology is also a key contributor for the 66% of UK respondents who believe technology makes us more ‘curious’.
The study also found that 30% of people in the UK are of the opinion that technology makes us more charitable. This is likely the result of the increased prevalence of charitable ‘giving’ platforms which allow people to make donations online, as well as enabling people to share their charitable endeavours via social platforms.
“Technology is often blamed for eroding empathy, the innate ability most humans are born with to identify and understand each other’s emotions and experiences. However, when we harness technological advances for positive purposes, it can help promote richer experiences that develop empathetic concern and leverage people into action on causes that matter to them,” commented psychologist Jocelyn Brewer.
“Developing the ability to imagine and connect with the experiences and perspectives of a broad range of diverse people can help build mental wealth and foster deeper, more meaningful relationships. Technology can be used to supplement our connections, not necessarily serve as the basis of them.”
PCR’s Top Women in Tech 2019: We’ll be highlighting 25 women that have made a positive impact in the industry over the past year, and we need YOU to submit yourself or your colleagues. Email laura.barnes@biz-media.co.uk now to find out how to submit your entry.
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