A Modern Dilemma: Technology, Love, and Control
Written on
The Ongoing Debate
Today, I tuned in to a congressional hearing regarding TikTok, sparking a heated discussion about whether the app's ownership should shift to an American company or face a permanent ban in the United States.
During this hearing, a Republican representative aggressively questioned TikTok's CEO, Mr. Show Chew, insinuating potential ties to the Chinese government and even suggesting he might be a spy. The representative went as far as to accuse the platform of being responsible for the tragic suicides of several children after they viewed TikTok content. Some participants in the hearing argued for the sale of the app to an American entity or its outright prohibition in the U.S.
This situation led me to ponder whether it is truly a privilege for national agencies like the CIA, FBI, NSA, or platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to influence our children’s thoughts and emotions.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I recall a time when children faced bullying through SMS, Instagram, Facebook, emails, and even handwritten notes left in lockers. Perhaps the challenge lies not in the application or device itself, but rather in a lack of parental guidance and open communication.
Nonetheless, I veer back to my primary focus, which is to delve into "The Ultimate '100 Books To Read Before You Die List." This recent congressional hearing brought to mind George Orwell's "1984," a haunting vision of a dystopian future penned in 1949.
Life Under Surveillance
The narrative follows Winston Smith, a senior member of the ruling party, who grapples with the oppressive Ministry of Truth and the omnipresent surveillance of 'Big Brother.' Smith's role involves altering historical records to align with the Party's narrative, and his desire to overthrow the regime leads him to Julia, a captivating woman with whom he embarks on a forbidden romance.
In their secluded hideout, they share their thoughts on the government, admitting their resignation to the Party's power. However, they soon discover they've been under constant surveillance, leading to their capture and interrogation. Ultimately, they accept their fate and return to their monotonous lives, stripped of the chance to reconnect.
After immersing myself in this book, I found myself contemplating whether, like Winston, I would choose a tedious existence filled with technology or abandon all digital ties to pursue a life of love and freedom.
As always, I invite you to share your thoughts on this topic so we can learn from one another. I look forward to your comments.
"The difference between technology and slavery is that slaves are fully aware that they are not free."
― Nassim Nicholas Taleb
© Copyright Jose Luis Ontanon, 2024
Chapter 1: The TikTok Controversy
Section 1.1: The Role of Technology in Society
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