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Digital opportunities, digital risks

We're always "on" – constantly, wherever we go. Is this a blessing or a curse? What do you think?

Digital technologies are shaping our lives – constantly, wherever we go. We're always "on" – at home, at work, on the go and even when we're trying to relax. For some people, digitization is a blessing, because it makes life simpler, faster, more diverse, more efficient – in short, just about better in every way. For others, it's a curse, because it stifles individuality, boosts stress, compromises our security and enslaves us to never-ending optimization. What do you think? Take a closer look, and decide for yourself! Here's an overview of the opportunities and risks, illustrated with representative contexts, that can serve as a guide.

I. Always on

ProContra
Say hello: It's never been easier to stay in touch with family and friends, no matter where they are.
Let me entertain you: We can watch movies and play games anytime and anywhere.
Work where you want: Ubiquitous data access gives us a wealth of new options for structuring our working lives.
Give me a break! When we never go offline and are always available, we never get any real rest.
Security! Just how safe are my data in the cloud?
Tracked! In using apps, I may (unwittingly) be disclosing too much of my personal data.

II. Quantified Self

ProContra
Get going! Get fitness apps and finally get in shape. 
Compete! It's fun and motivating to challenge your friends.
Be healthy! Get a healthy lifestyle and save on your health insurance.
Patronized! Look, I'm a lover of life, and you want to turn me into a mindless fitness junkie! 
Under pressure: Are we going along just because of social pressures?
Economize! Maybe the insurance companies are getting more out of our data than we are!

III. Smart Home

ProContra
Be efficient! Welcome to the smart home, where it's easy to save energy.
Individualize! Easy, convenient and full control over your home environment – lights, temperature, blinds...
Be safe! Did you forget to turn off the stove? No problem! You can turn it off remotely.
The trojan home: Maybe this is housewarming for hackers and connectivity for commerce. 
Threatened! What happens when all systems are suddenly no go?
A faraway land called "interoperability":Different devices, different systems – can they really talk to each other?

IV. On the road, on-line

ProContra
Connected to safety: Connected cars make for fewer traffic jams and fewer accidents. 
Protect! Less braking and less acceleration mean lower emissions.
Reward! Smart drivers get smart insurance rates.
Be fun? You've taken all the fun out of the open road!
Let machines decide? Hit Johnny to save Sally? Who decides – me, or somebody's algorithm? 
Be nudged! Who wants a data-disclosing copilot?

V. Logistics

ProContra
Deliver: Drones can deliver to the most out-of-the way places.
Act from above! A fast aerial view makes for fast, efficient responses to emergencies.
Widen view! Get new perspectives from the air.
Right, and they're watching you: Both the government and your neighbor can put drones over your house.
Crashed! Drone traffic is becoming an airspace hazard.
They can deliver bad things, too: Now terrorists can attack us with drones.

Young woman meets Robot

Digital responsibility

Experts discuss about chances and risks of digitization.

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