Examining the Digital World Through the Use of Sociological Theory
Name
Date
The Conflict Theory and Symbolic Interaction Theory
The conflict theory posits that societies are characterized by ongoing conflicts arising from the competition over limited resources. Instead of relying on conformity and consensus, this theory asserts that social order is upheld through power and domination (Seidman, 2016). This perspective holds that those who are powerful and wealthy try to protect their advantages by any means necessary, frequently persecuting those who lack these advantages. According to the theory, members of social groupings and individuals within a society will work hard to improve their personal advantages.
The symbolic interaction theory is a theoretical framework in which individuals assess their own actions by comparing themselves to others. This theory elucidates how individuals employ symbols to shape their perceptions of the world and engage in communication with others (Thornberg, 2017). Without the presence of symbols, our lives would lack the complexity and sophistication that distinguishes us from animals.
The conflict theory leads to the conclusion that technological advancements are a finite resource that not everyone can buy. This theory contends that individuals in positions of power will benefit from the current social structure, allowing them to embrace new technology and prosper in the digital age (Siregar, 2022). This advantage will be utilized to prevent the impoverished from accessing new technology.
Based on the symbolic interaction theory, individuals assess their own actions by comparing themselves to others who have embraced and are immersed in a digital world (Long, 20220. They tend to associate themselves with new technologies and utilize them for communication purposes.
Ways in Which Society have Changed in the Last Few Decades
In recent decades, internet technology emerged as a novel and captivating development that generated excitement among people. It was initially mainly used for academic and professional purposes. But in the modern era, the internet has taken on a vital and indispensable role in our lives. It is widely used in a variety of fields, such as research, entertainment, communication, commerce, marketing, and a number of other areas.
There has been an increase in civility among people during the past few decades. People used to smoke openly in a variety of settings, including stores, supermarkets, and restaurants, in the past. Despite the harm this practice produced, it was accepted as the usual at the time (Tulenova & Sanaqulov, 2022). Smoking in public areas is now strictly prohibited, however this was not the case in the past.
Over the last few decades, students have been expected to physically attend their classrooms and turn in their work. But today, enrolling in a course and studying it online are both available without having to physically attend courses.
People have found amusement in recent decades through going to live performances by artists, however only a small number of people did so. But it has now become a need in people’s life in the modern era. People are now more eager and eager to watch a variety of content that suits their interests.
The molding of societal developments has been influenced by a variety of variables. These include interactions with other societies, changes in the environment that cause diseases to spread and natural resources to be depleted, and technological advancements, which are best illustrated by the industrial revolution and the ensuing urbanization, along with the emergence of new social groups (Tulenova & Sanaqulov, 2022).
Examples of Technological Growth
With the majority of people holding smartphones, the modern period has seen a widespread transition to a smart environment. Users can interact, browse the internet, and carry out other operations akin to those done on a computer with these devices. Other automated gadgets, like automatic cabinets, activity and health monitoring devices, and smart lighting systems, have also been made possible by technological improvements.
Technological advancements have brought about notable transformations in both society and organizations. For instance, as people utilize technology to facilitate their communication, they also rely on technology for the storage and analysis of data.
Digital Divide
This refers to the disparity that exists between different regions and demographics in terms of access to modern communication and information technology. There are those who have access to the internet and computers, while others have limited or no access at all (Friemel, 2016).
Factors that Contribute to Digital Divide Are
The availability of technology tends to correlate with higher levels of skill and knowledge among those who have access, leading to a noticeable gap between them and those without access.
Socioeconomic status: Refers to the position or social class of an individual or a group, which is typically assessed based on factors such as occupation, income, or level of education. This socioeconomic status reveals disparities in access to technology, as individuals in higher social classes tend to have greater access to technology compared to those in lower social classes (Lythreatis et al., 2022).
Age: Age is a contributing factor that plays a role in creating a digital divide. Younger individuals are generally more familiar and enthusiastic about new technologies compared to older individuals. This discrepancy in technological proficiency and interest between different age groups leads to a digital divide.
Personal interest: This plays a significant role in determining one’s level of knowledge and familiarity with technology. Individuals who have a keen interest in technology tend to acquire more knowledge and expertise compared to those who lack interest in the subject matter.
Residence location: The geographical location of one’s residence is a determining factor in the level of technological advancement. Areas with limited or poor network access tend to lag behind in terms of technological development compared to regions with better network connectivity.
Ways to Combat Digital Divide
Firstly, to address the digital divide, it is crucial to focus on improving infrastructure in underserved areas. This involves expanding broadband connectivity, especially in rural and remote regions, and investing in reliable network infrastructure (Kormos & Wisdom, 2021). Governments and private organizations should collaborate to extend high-speed internet access to all communities, reducing the disparities caused by uneven infrastructure development.
Secondly, making technology more affordable and accessible is essential. Governments and organizations can provide subsidies, grants, or discounted rates for low-income individuals and marginalized communities to acquire internet connectivity and necessary devices. Promoting affordable internet plans and providing public Wi-Fi in community centers, schools, and libraries can also enhance accessibility for those who cannot afford personal devices or reliable internet connections.
Also, promoting digital literacy is crucial in empowering individuals to effectively utilize technology. Educational institutions, community centers, and NGOs should offer digital literacy programs to teach essential digital skills, such as internet usage, online safety, computer proficiency, and digital communication (Kormos & Wisdom, 2021). These programs should be accessible to all age groups and tailored to meet the needs of different communities.
Again, addressing the digital divide requires collaboration among governments, private sector organizations, civil society, and communities. Partnerships can be formed to share resources, knowledge, and best practices, leading to more efficient and comprehensive solutions (Mossey & Manoharan, 2019). Public-private partnerships can facilitate the development of infrastructure, affordability programs, and digital literacy initiatives, ensuring a more holistic approach to bridging the digital divide.
Application to the Store Scenario
The digital divide is evident in the workplace where some employees possess personal computers at home, enabling them to complete their tasks remotely, while others are unable to do so and have to rely on public spaces for their work. Furthermore, the store itself lacks access to up-to-date technology and modern business practices.
The Best Theory
The aforementioned scenario can be understood through the lens of the conflict theory, which suggests that individuals with the ability to access technology may deliberately limit others’ access. In this case, the capable individuals in the store exclusively conduct their business from the convenience of their homes, while others are compelled to rely on public places to fulfill their work responsibilities.
References
Friemel, T. N. (2016). The digital divide has grown old: Determinants of a digital divide among seniors. New media & society, 18(2), 313-331.
Kormos, E., & Wisdom, K. (2021). Rural schools and the digital divide: Technology in the learning experience. Theory & Practice in Rural Education, 11(1).
Long, T. (2022). A Study on the Cultural Interaction Characteristics of New Generation Migrant Workers Under Symbolic Interaction Theory. Asian Journal of Social Science Studies, 7(5), 66.
Lythreatis, S., Singh, S. K., & El-Kassar, A. N. (2022). The digital divide: A review and future research agenda. Technological Forecasting and Social Change, 175, 121359.
Mossey, S., & Manoharan, A. P. (2019). The Digital Divide. E-Government and Information Technology Management: Concepts and Best Practices, 203.
Seidman, S. (2016). Contested knowledge: Social theory today. John Wiley & Sons.
Siregar, I. (2022). The Relationship between Conflict and Social Change in the Perspective of Expert Theory: A Literature Review. International Journal of Arts and Humanities Studies, 2(1), 09-16.
Thornberg, R. (2017). Grounded theory. The BERA/SAGE handbook of educational research, 1, 355-375.
Tulenova, G., & Sanaqulov, A. (2022). MODERN VIRTUAL TECHNOLOGY AND ITS OPPORTUNITIES. Academic research in educational sciences, 3(9), 100-105.
At Legal writing experts, we would be happy to assist in preparing any legal document you need. We are international lawyers and attorneys with significant experience in legal drafting, Commercial-Corporate practice and consulting. In the last few years, we have successfully undertaken similar assignments for clients from different jurisdictions. If given this opportunity, The LegalPen will be able to prepare the legal document within the shortest time possible. You can send us your quick enquiry ( here )