Blog 3: Technology, Friend or Foe

    Earlier this week we were asked to come up with some ways the fictional world in 1984 is similar to present day. One of the main similarities I found was that we are constantly being monitored by technology. In 1984, citizens are spied on 24/7 through cameras and microphones hidden in their homes, workplaces, and any public areas. This system is almost the same as what’s used today, except for the fact we willingly carry the recording devices in our pockets. 

    Along with the constant monitoring comes a lack of privacy. Every time you search something up or go someplace new, google and other big companies file away the information to use later. Famously, Facebook was fined around 5 billion dollars when caught selling users data illegally. However, through the use of incredibly long terms of agreements that no one actually reads anyway, it continues to mine our data every time we enter the app. The idea that what we do on the internet is constantly being tracked is scary, especially considering the fact that most of our lives are spent online.

    On the other hand, there are also many advantages that this type of technology comes with. One advantage is that police are able to use cellphones to track criminals and bring them to justice. During an investigation, the police have access to a citizens search history, call history, texts, and even their GPS location. This helps get criminals off the streets and makes the world a safer place. This proves that the technology itself is not the problem, but how it’s used. In 1984, it’s used only as a way to control the people of Oceania. Today, it’s used in both positive and negative ways. While improved technology has made life easier in many ways, it comes at a price, and it’s up to you to decide if it is worth it.