Why Are People Afraid of Technology?

In the modern era, technology evolves rapidly. New advancements often come with high costs, making them initially less accessible. However, when innovation is focused on enhancing existing technologies, it directly benefits people by driving competition among companies to provide better services. As technology improves and becomes more accessible, the overall cost decreases, making it more valuable to a broader audience. If a technology is too expensive and out of reach for most people, its value diminishes. This dynamic creates a paradox: despite the clear benefits of technological progress, many people still harbor fear and apprehension towards it. So, why are people afraid of technology?

Fear of the Unknown

Generally, people’s fear of technology arises from a fear of the unknown. New technologies bring uncertainty, and people may not fully understand how these technologies work or how they might impact their lives. This lack of understanding can lead to anxiety and resistance, as individuals may feel overwhelmed by the rapid pace of change.

For example, when it comes to online voting, many people worry about potential hacking and whether their votes are being accurately counted. In rural areas, people might not grasp the concept of online voting, leading to confusion and distrust. Senior citizens, in particular, may be more apprehensive about using new technologies due to a lack of familiarity. These concerns, while valid, highlight a broader issue of discomfort with unfamiliar technological processes.

Job Displacement and Ethical Dilemmas

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked fears about job displacement, loss of control, and ethical dilemmas. The concern that AI could replace humans in the workforce or make decisions without human oversight is a significant source of anxiety for many. This fear of the unknown can cause people to view technology with suspicion, rather than embracing its potential benefits.

Data Privacy and Security

Losing control over personal data is another major concern. With the increasing use of digital devices and internet platforms, a significant amount of personal data is being collected and stored by companies. The fear that this data could be misused or fall into the wrong hands leads to a general mistrust of technology.

Media Influence

Media and internet culture also play a crucial role in shaping people’s fears about technology. Movies, TV shows, and news stories often portray technology negatively, focusing on scenarios where it goes wrong or is used for malicious purposes. These depictions can amplify existing fears and create a sense of unease, even if such scenarios are unlikely to occur in reality.

Solutions to Overcome Technological Fears

Enhancing Security and Transparency  

To address fears about online voting, robust security measures need to be implemented. This includes end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and audit trails to ensure the integrity and transparency of votes. Providing clear, hands-on education and awareness programs, especially in rural areas and for senior citizens, can help demystify online voting. Simplifying the voting process and offering support can also alleviate concerns. To gain the confidence of people, Right2Vote got its eVoting platform tested and certified by  Standardization Testing and Quality Certification Directorate (STQC) Government of India. Right2Vote’s eVoting platform was first certified by STQC, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and MCA in March 2019.

Focusing on Education and Reskilling

To mitigate fears about AI and job displacement, there should be a focus on education and reskilling. Governments, educational institutions, and industries should collaborate to offer workshops and virtual guide that equip workers with the skills needed in an AI-driven economy. Establishing clear regulations and ethical standards can also help ensure AI is developed and used responsibly.

Protecting Data Privacy

To address data privacy concerns, companies must adopt transparent data collection and usage practices. This includes clearly communicating what data is being collected, how it is used, and giving users control over their personal information. Implementing strong encryption, security, and data minimization practices can also reduce the risk of data misuse. Governments can enact comprehensive data protection laws to ensure companies are held accountable for safeguarding user data. Voting platforms are responsible to maintain full confidentiality of email IDs / Mobile numbers of the voters, other information provided by the members and also of the eVoting results. Right2Vote is very particular about data privacy and promises to not share email IDs / Mobile numbers of the voters with any third party apart from the purpose of eVoting. Right2Vote also contractually agrees to not use the mobile number and the email IDs for marketing or other promotional activities.

Promoting Balanced Media Narratives

To counter the negative portrayal of technology in the media, it’s important to promote balanced and informed discussions about technology’s impact. Public education campaigns featuring experts who can explain the benefits and risks of new technologies in a relatable way can help shift public perception. Encouraging media outlets to cover positive stories and successful applications of technology can also help. By teaching people to critically evaluate the information they consume, we can reduce the influence of sensationalized media portrayals and help individuals form their own informed opinions about technology.

Conclusion

While fear of technology is natural, especially when faced with rapid changes and uncertainty, understanding and education are key to overcoming these fears. Right2Vote is very transparent about its data privacy policy and provided a lot of literature on its website to explain how data privacy is ensured on the Right2Vote eVoting platform. 

By promoting transparency, providing education and demonstration, and fostering a balanced dialogue about the benefits of technology, we can help alleviate these anxieties and encourage a more informed and confident embrace of technological advancements.

To know more about Right2Vote’s election technology, please refer:

• Government of India certificates
• Features for eVoting
• Security and safety
• Pricing
• Our customers
• Contact Us