Many of us are knowingly or unknowingly addicted to the mobile phone. Watching us, our children tend to follow the same pattern leading to some or the other distress. This raises many concerns. While technology has created wonders for us there is a tendency for its unchecked use and formation of addictive patterns.
One would think that our ancients did not know about such possibilities and inventions, and therefore would not be able to provide any guidance on the matter. However, the truth is that our great seers were far-sighted and have addressed the problems we face in contemporary times. Let us explore the traditional sanatana perspective on the use of mobile phones and technology.
With the extensive invention and use of mechanisation, the existence of divine things and persons is brought to extinction. – Jagadguru Puri Shankaracharya
Pujyapad Puri Shankaracharyaji warns us about the destruction caused by the excessive use of technology. Manuji already mentioned this, lakhs of years ago, “Mahayantrapravartana” (Manusmriti 11.63) – which indicates how the excessive use of high technology leads to destruction.
The growing dependence on mobile phones is very detrimental to our well-being. It causes the degradation of the following:
- Pragnya shakti – our intellect and wisdom
- Praana shakti – the power of vitality and vigour
- Jivani shakti – life force
- Charitra – character
One must be careful of the growing dependence on the mobile phone and prevent children from getting addicted to these. It is only parents who can inculcate discipline from the start. We all can function without constantly communicating on the mobile phone. It is observed that even when families are physically together, they are engaged on their respective mobile phones without caring about their relation with each other. Girls and boys build relationships over the mobile phone and get destroyed. Youth are on the phone for hours and neglect their studies, etc.
Indicating towards the introduction of Artificial Intelligence at a large scale in the future, Pujyapad Puri Shankaracharyaji says that we are heading for times when even the role of teachers and schools may get obsolete. It is the responsibility of the government to limit the usage of such technology.