Sad Reality of Better Technology

Technology,
has revolutionized the world in ways we could never have imagined. From instant communication to access to endless amounts of information, technology has made our lives easier and more efficient. However, with these advancements come ethical questions about the impact technology has on society, particularly the growing divide between the technologically advanced and underdeveloped communities.
It's easy to assume that those who have made high-level technological achievements have fair morality and good intentions towards the underdeveloped community. But in reality, this is not always the case. Many tech giants and companies have been accused of exploiting and profiting off the very communities they claim to be helping.
For example:- Facebook's Free Basics program, which aimed to provide internet access to underdeveloped communities, was met with backlash in India. Critics argued that the program violated net neutrality and created a digital divide, with limited access to certain websites and services. In response, the Indian government banned the program in 2016.
Similarly, Google has been criticized for its involvement in Project Maven, a program that aimed to provide AI technology for the US military. The project led to an employee revolt, with thousands of employees signing a letter urging Google to end its involvement in the program. The controversy led to Google announcing in 2019 that it would not renew its contract with the US Department of Defense.
These examples highlight the ethical dilemmas that arise when technology companies claim to be helping underdeveloped communities. The reality is that these companies are often driven by profit, and their actions can have negative consequences for the very people they claim to be helping.
However, there are also examples of technology being used for good in underdeveloped communities. For instance, the M-Pesa mobile payment system in Kenya has allowed for financial inclusion and empowerment of low-income individuals who would otherwise not have access to traditional banking services. Similarly, organizations like Code.org and One Laptop per Child are working to provide access to technology and education in underdeveloped communities.
In conclusion,
while technology has the potential to bridge the gap between the technologically advanced and underdeveloped communities, it's important to approach these initiatives with a critical eye. Companies should prioritize the ethical implications of their actions and strive to create meaningful change for the communities they claim to be helping. By doing so, we can harness the power of technology for good and work towards a more equitable world.