BREAKTHROGH in SCIENCE and TECHNOLOGY: CURSE or BLESSING?

There is no gainsaying that there has been revolution in the area of science and technology in the world, particularly since the last few decades. Many technological devices now abound in the society, which makes life meaningful and comfortable for the citizens. Among these are the motor vehicle of various brands, ships, aeroplanes, helicopters, jets and others, which makes it easier for people and goods to be transported from one place to another.

Due to the availability of television, radio, internet, computer, handset and others, people can now be linked to other places, countries and continents of the world thus making the world a global village. Many drugs had also been produced to cure the endemic diseases thus reducing the mortality rate in the society.

Advancement in science and technology has also been a blessing to the economy. Today, computer is ubiquitous, being used in Banks, offices, business organizations and others. This has not only been reducing labour demand but enhancing efficiency and effectiveness of workers in an organization. Today, ATM Machine makes it easier for people to withdraw money anywhere thus reducing the risk in carrying money about and ensuring comfortability of individuals.

Notwithstanding the benefits accrued to science and technology, many hazards and problems are associating with it. There is the issue of accidents on road, air, water, which had not only claimed several life but also registered many among the disabled in the society.

Through the advent of computer and other labour saving machines, many organizations, companies have had cause to lay down some of their workers to reduce cost. This is why unemployment rate is increasing in many countries of the world.

Over the years, if there is any issue that has been threatening the peaceful coexistence of individuals in the society, it is nothing more than wars and civil unrest. However, many of the war machines and equipment are products of science and technology.

There is no doubt that crime rate is increasing in many countries of the world, which has been a cause of concern. Cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, assassination, terrorism among others are now prevalent in many countries of the world. The case of militancy and kidnapping in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria is a typical example. These militant youths do make use of sophisticated machines and equipment to perpetrate their acts.

It is obvious that there is collapse of moral value in the society. Today, many nude films are watched at home, sold on the streets and shown in cinema houses, which are making encouraging the youths to indulge in prostitution.

While it can be argued that breakthrough in science and technology is a welcome development, in view of the associated benefits, there is need for control of the production and usage of the machines and equipment so as not to defeat their purpose(s). Manufactures of war machines and equipment should produce more of those equipment and machines and concentrate more on those that can serve good purpose in the society.

There is need for continued monitoring of the use of sophisticated machines and war equipment by countries in the world. The United Nations that has been the vanguard in this regard should be more committed towards achieving this feat. Government of countries in the world should also regulate and supervise the use of products of science and technology for peaceful and comfortable living in the society.