Introduction
Humanity lives in an era of technological progress that increasingly penetrates and modifies everyday life. The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of interconnected devices, whether household electrical appliances or hospital equipment. Naturally, every phenomenon has both positive and negative sides. However, with proper use, humanity can avoid the negative consequences of spreading the Internet of Things and get the most out of this innovation. Arguments favoring IoT mainly include improving the efficiency and safety of household processes.
Advantages of IoT
Nowadays, life is fast and complicated, filled with additional stress factors. IoT allows people to spend fewer resources and time managing familiar processes. In addition, these systems help people with disabilities be more independent (Vasco Lopes, 2020). For example, using the smart home system allows users to control all automated systems in their homes conveniently (Mulcahy et al., 2019). It also saves electricity and improves accessibility.
In addition to being used at home, the IoT helps to optimize many social processes and services. Among them, one can mention education and healthcare (Magaña, 2017). Many students who previously did not have access to a regular education have received it (Kassab et al., 2019). Modernization of hospitals has increased life expectancy and improved the quality of medical care (Aghdam et al., 2021).
Dangers of IoT
Of course, one must never forget that IoT systems must be thoroughly tested for compliance with security and privacy protocols (HaddadPajouh et al., 2021). Cybersecurity issues are the main deterrent to the massive expansion of IoT (Valacich et al., 2022). However, these adverse effects can be minimized with careful attention to development.
Christian View on IoT
From a Christian perspective, there are different views on the impact of the Internet of Things, but mostly positive ones. The message of IoT is quite similar to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, where Jesus commands his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations (King James Bible, 2017). In this context, Christians may see IoT as a tool to help them reach more people with the Gospel message and connect with others in new ways.
Conclusion
Thus, the IoT phenomenon is ambiguous, although it carries more positive features than negative ones. These developments can benefit many people, including children and people with disabilities. This makes the development and improvement of the IoT an essential social initiative. Also, IoT principles do not conflict with basic Christian principles. Given due attention to security issues, this technological progress is a significant positive change in people’s lives.
References
Aghdam, Z. N., Rahmani, A. M., & Hosseinzadeh, M. (2021). The role of the Internet of Things in healthcare: Future trends and challenges. Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine, 199, 105903. Web.
HaddadPajouh, H., Dehghantanha, A., M. Parizi, R., Aledhari, M., & Karimipour, H. (2021). A survey on Internet of Things security: Requirements, challenges, and solutions. Internet of Things, 14, 100129. Web.
Kassab, M., DeFranco, J., & Laplante, P. (2019). A systematic literature review on Internet of Things in education: Benefits and challenges. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 36(2), 115–127. Web.
King James Bible. (2017). King James Bible Online. Web.
Magaña, S. (2017). Disruptive Classroom Technologies: A framework for innovation in Education. Corwin, A SAGE Company
Mulcahy, R., Letheren, K., McAndrew, R., Glavas, C., & Russell-Bennett, R. (2019). Are households ready to engage with smart home technology? Journal of Marketing Management, 35(15-16), 1370–1400. Web.
Valacich, J., Schneider, C., & Hashim, M. (2022). Information Systems Today: Managing in the Digital World. Pearson Education Limited
Vasco Lopes, N. (2020). Internet of things feasibility for disabled people. Transactions on Emerging Telecommunications Technologies, 31(12). Web.