By: Javaid Bhat
Digital technologies have brought tremendous benefits to our lives. Its rise has proved a boon for communication, trade, Education and in other spheres of life. From instant communication with loved ones to the ability to work from anywhere, internet gives us a full-fledged company. However, the downside of these technological advancements is that they have created a culture of constant connectivity that can often feel like internet slavery.
Internet slavery refers to the state of being constantly connected to technology or screen through our smartphones, laptops, or other devices. We are constantly bombarded with emails, notifications, and alerts, and it can be difficult to switch off and disconnect from work, for want of more messages and information. The attraction of screen is so great that people forget their routine work and even meals.
While constant connectivity can be beneficial in some ways, it also comes with significant costs. The pressure of work and continuous use of screen can take a toll on our mental and physical health, leading to burnout, anxiety, and even depression. This is particularly true in the workplace where employees are expected to be reachable at all times.
Research has shown that internet slavery can lead to a decrease in productivity, as constant interruptions and distractions can make it difficult to focus on tasks. This can lead to a decline in job satisfaction and an increase in stress levels, which can have a negative impact on employee morale and ultimately hurt a company’s reputation.
Students, especially teens are becoming vulnerable to internet slavery. Nowadays we see students remaining focused on internet. They neglect or don’t get time to complete their homework. While remaining awake till late hours of night, they cannot grasp things in the classroom, besides they feel sleepiness and discomfort as I have noticed in my classroom.
The resourceful books are being shelved under the heap of dust. Even majority of students are feeling it shame to carry their text books in classrooms.
We hear people saying that they cannot live without smartphones, and many of us feel the pressure to constantly check our devices for new notifications and messages.
By virtue of internet we live in a world where we are connected but always diverted, distracted and not present.
So it is high time to be careful and mindful for use of internet .We can definitely prevent digital slavery from taking over our lives and enjoy the benefits of digital technology without the negative consequences, by using it judiciously.
