In today’s world technology has become an integral part of life. Ipsos Global Trends 2024 shows that attitudes toward technological progress are ambivalent. People acknowledge its necessity but also fear its consequences. More than 70% of respondents believe that technology plays a key role in solving future problems. However, 66% are concerned that technology might exacerbate social and economic issues.
Dependence on technology has grown in recent years. 67% of respondents claim that their lives would be harder without modern technology. This figure demonstrates how deeply technological influence has penetrated. People have become accustomed to the conveniences provided by smart devices, the internet, and automation. However, at the same time, 57% of respondents expressed fear that new technologies could worsen their quality of life. This contradiction raises interesting questions about the future.
The main source of concern is data privacy and protection. 63% of people worry that companies use their personal data without consent. Trust in large corporations is declining. People want to understand how their information is used. Transparency and openness are becoming crucial aspects for businesses seeking to maintain consumer loyalty. This requires new strategies and approaches to data management.
Another issue is the labor market. Technological automation is changing job structures. 68% of respondents believe that new technologies could lead to job cuts. The fear of losing jobs to robots and automated systems affects millions of people. This is especially true in low-skilled areas where labor is most likely to be replaced by machines. Such changes create a need for worker retraining and support from both the state and companies.
Technological progress also impacts the sense of personal security. 62% of respondents are concerned about cyberattacks and their potential impact on society. This is linked to the rise in digital threats and the complexity of protecting information. Cyberattacks can paralyze entire industries and cause serious economic damage. Confidence in data and infrastructure protection is becoming a top priority for everyone.
Despite these concerns, technology remains a hope for a better future. 75% of survey participants believe that innovations help solve global problems such as climate change and resource scarcity. Green technologies, which contribute to reducing carbon emissions, are an example. However, the implementation of these solutions requires time and significant investments. Business and government must work together to accelerate this process.
Another ambivalent aspect is the impact of technology on social interactions. 56% of respondents believe that technology helps them stay connected with loved ones. This is especially relevant during the pandemic when digital platforms became the basis for communication. However, at the same time, 43% are convinced that technology destroys real connections and worsens communication. Virtual meetings cannot replace face-to-face interactions, creating a new level of loneliness and alienation.
The development of technology requires a responsible approach. Companies developing innovations must understand these ambivalent feelings. Trust can be earned through honest data usage and the protection of personal information. 57% of respondents expect companies to act ethically and transparently. Leaders must show that they care about their users and put their interests first.
Education and workforce training play an important role. For technology to be beneficial, people need to adapt. 68% believethat investment in training and skill development is necessary. This will help reduce the negative impacts of automation and open up new opportunities. Education systems and companies should work on creating programs that support employees.
Thus, technology is both a savior and a threat. It opens doors to new opportunities but also carries risks. The responsibility for managing these risks lies with companies and governments. Transparency, data protection, ethical behavior, and investment in education are the keys to a safe and prosperous technological future.
Ipsos Global Trends 2024 shows that attitudes toward technology remain ambivalent. This requires a thoughtful and balanced approach.
Prepared by: Sultan Valikhanov, expert of the Economy KZ portal
