Today's youth-Gen Z, Alpha, and the emerging Beta generation-are often hailed as extremely smart. They seem to have mastered every corner of modern technology. But is that really true? Does being able to use the latest gadgets or apps equate to true intelligence?
In reality, a truly smart person possesses knowledge, taste, and manners. Sadly, these qualities are gradually fading among young people. While they can navigate smartphones or search engines effortlessly, many now rely on technology for even the simplest tasks. Critical thinking is often outsourced to artificial intelligence, and a shifting sense of fashion and social trends increasingly defines their "taste." Worse still, offensive language is frequently mistaken for confidence.
Why has this dependence on technology become so pervasive? Easy access and the speed of digital tools are key factors. Globalisation has made life faster and more interconnected, while smartphones, the internet, and search engines are now at everyone's fingertips. Digital platforms offer instant solutions, encouraging a preference for ready-made answers over independent thought.
Education has also become largely digitalised. Online classes, e-books, and video tutorials have revolutionised learning, but they have simultaneously fostered dependency on technology. In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, skills like coding, data analytics, and artificial intelligence are essential for employment, further drawing young people toward technology.
At first glance, this reliance appears beneficial-it solves problems quickly, opens career opportunities, encourages innovation, and improves access to education. Yet, overdependence comes at a cost. Excessive use reduces patience and critical thinking, weakens memory and creativity, and diminishes the ability to analyse deeply. It also leads to addiction, physical ailments such as eye strain and insomnia, and social consequences, including weakened empathy and emotional connection. Moreover, online privacy violations, cyberbullying, and hacking pose significant risks.
As the saying goes, "A matchstick can light a stove or burn a house-it depends on how you use it." Technology itself is not harmful, but complete dependence is dangerous. Young people must learn that true intelligence lies not in using technology, but in using it wisely and responsibly.
Laboni Akter Kobita
Department of Public Administration
Jagannath University
laboniakterkobita6@gmail.com
