Our attention has been hijacked by the tsunami of devices, games and social media which now dominate our lives. This new technology brings efficiency, cost savings and instantaneous information. But when our attention is the currency being traded by big tech firms, what price are we willing to pay for convenience?
Addiction, anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self-esteem, stunted empathy development, troubled relationships, fake news, propaganda and even threats to democracy are just some of the challenges new technology presents. Anti-trust law has failed to prevent the emergence of a few dominant big tech platforms and regulation has not kept pace with surveillance capitalism.
The internet was created on the basis that all users are equal, but children and the vulnerable are not. In Born Digital, Robert Wigley distils the mountains of available research on the subject and brings to bear his wealth of institutional experience to present a road map for society to radically and urgently reset its relationship with technology - for the sake of future generations.
PRAISE FOR BORN DIGITAL
‘Born Digital covers a lot of ground in reviewing social tech ‘weapons of mass distraction’. An important read for parents, caregivers, educators, policymakers and industry, in fact for
any stakeholder concerned about the impact of technology on our children and, in turn, on society.’ - Professor Mary Aiken, author The Cyber Effect
‘Keen insights. Urgent questions. For friends, parents, colleagues – and indeed for members of the Born Digital generation.’ - TS Anil, CEO Monzo Bank
‘Brilliant, factual and really reaches deep into the behaviours of Generation Z. From screen time before bed to cyberbullying and mental wellbeing. A must read. Highly recommended.’ - Jack Parsons (twenty-five), CEO, The Youth Group
