▶ Bridget Yoonji Lee / West Ranch High school 9th Grade
The car exists for those who are too lazy to walk to the grocery store. The computer allows people to research a topic from the comfort of their own home instead of making a trip to their local library. Rather than actually attending a sporting event, individuals can watch the game via the television. Although technology is viewed positively because it provides convenience, it has also caused many problems for the legislature and human morality.
Advances in technology require the legislature to keep up with the rapidly changing progress. For example, as scientists research more and more about stem cells, it has caused a moral issue and debate on whether it is safe to kill the embryonic cell for an impaired organ. Does stem cell research make our lives convenient?
The concept of stem cell research was originally supposed to help disabled people, as stem cells can significantly help in failing body organs. However on the other hand, it has caused a debatable issue, offending individuals and their religious beliefs.
In reality, technology adds to the layers of triglycerides in our body. In recent statistics printed by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 35.9% of adults age 20 and over were clinically obese. By making our lives easier, technology has simultaneously been adding to poor health habits. Instead of burning off the calories by walking to the grocery store, people take the car even when it is only a few blocks away. Videogames and television also have a high effect on child obesity rates. The child could be partaking in a more active lifestyle, but instead, is sitting at home and being unproductive.
Also, technology has a profound effect on the social life of teenagers. Due to technology and social media, many teens feel bullied and have become depressed as a result. Others may be addicted to their phones and are restricting themselves from doing more productive things. Technology should not naively be viewed as only a positive aspect in our lives. Although it has made our lives easier, the side effects of technology should also be heavily taken into consideration.