TASK 2:
Question: Some people believe that as technology becomes more advanced, people are losing basic skills that were once essential for daily life. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
ANSWER:
In an era dominated by rapid technological innovation, it is widely argued that people are gradually losing fundamental life skills that were once indispensable. I largely agree with this view, as technology has significantly reduced both practical abilities and cognitive skills, despite offering certain modern advantages.
One major consequence of technological dependence is the decline in practical, everyday skills. In the past, individuals were required to perform tasks such as cooking from scratch, repairing household items, or even navigating unfamiliar areas using physical maps. These activities not only ensured self-reliance but also fostered problem-solving abilities. However, with the rise of food delivery services, automated appliances, and GPS navigation, many people no longer feel the need to acquire such competencies. As a result, they become increasingly dependent on external systems, leaving them vulnerable when technology is unavailable or malfunctions.
Equally concerning is the erosion of basic cognitive skills, particularly those related to memory and critical thinking. For example, before the widespread use of smartphones, people had to memorise phone numbers, important dates, or directions. Nowadays, this information is instantly accessible, leading individuals to rely on devices rather than their own mental capacity. Similarly, the overuse of search engines has reduced people’s ability to think independently, as they tend to accept readily available answers instead of analysing problems themselves. This shift may gradually weaken intellectual discipline and reduce the depth of human thinking.
Admittedly, technological advancement has facilitated the development of new skills, especially in the digital domain. Modern individuals are now expected to be proficient in using online platforms, managing digital information, and communicating effectively in virtual environments. These competencies are undoubtedly valuable in today’s world. However, such skills cannot fully compensate for the loss of fundamental abilities that are essential for independent living and cognitive resilience.
In conclusion, I strongly believe that technological progress has led to a significant decline in both practical and cognitive life skills. Although it has introduced new forms of competence, these gains do not outweigh the fundamental losses that affect individuals’ independence and intellectual capability.
