In an age where technology changes with such speed, one writer suggests taking a deep breath and slowing down. Even though new and seemingly better technologies are available, Farhad Manjoo advices not to be so quick to switch over. He notes that the tech industry today is “far more consequential” and “dangerous” than it was in previous years. Rather than jumping at every chance to purchase the latest and greatest technologies, we must consider our impact as consumers.
Manjoo offers three maxims for the world to follow:
1. Don’t just look at the product. Look at the business model.
Because the market is lined with well working, quality products, it’s no longer necessary to choose technology based solely on how well it works. Rather, we should make our choices based on the company who is making the product. Consider things like morals and branding. A company with quality products but unethical business practices is not one deserving of consumers’ money.
2. Avoid feeding the giants.
The tech market is dominated by five main companies: Apple, Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Microsoft. The influence of these companies has not faltered in recent years. Manjoo suggests that the dominance of these giants ruins innovation and takes away consumers’ freedom of choice. Furthermore, it makes governmental regulations difficult. However, consumers have the power to combat these issues. If presented with a choice between a product by one of the tech giants or a similar product by an independent company, choose the one made by the independent company.
3. Adopt late. Slow down.
Manjoo advises us to appreciate the power of our devices. Instead of updating as soon as new technology becomes available to us, we should wait and be on guard for the possible problems it could have. For example, an issue with the Samsung Galaxy Note 7’s battery caused it to explode unexpectedly when it hit the market. While this may be an extreme example, it is dangers like this one that consumers need to be aware of before they invest their money in expensive, new devices.
In his article, Manjoo focuses on the choices consumers can make to “survive” the new world of technology. I’d like to extend his argument by applying the same ideas to engineering. As engineers, we should take full responsibility for the products we design and help to create. As future employees, we must consider the business model of those companies we may work for. Consider working for smaller, independent companies that both make quality products and follow ethical business practices. Furthermore, we have an obligation to consumers to produce safe technologies. If engineers realize and embrace the obligations they have, consumers may not have to view the tech world from such a defensive position. The responsibility should lie with the producers, not the consumers.
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