KQED · 14 Oct, 10:00 · Technology briefing

Is Technology Making Our Lives Less Gratifying? (with Ian Bogost)

KQED recently published an article titled 'Is Technology Making Our Lives Less Gratifying?', featuring insights from Ian Bogost.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

KQED recently published an article titled 'Is Technology Making Our Lives Less Gratifying?', featuring insights from Ian Bogost. The piece critically examines the growing disconnect between technological advancement and personal satisfaction. Bogost argues that while digital tools promise efficiency, they often erode meaningful engagement and intrinsic reward in daily activities. The discussion highlights how constant connectivity and automated processes may inadvertently diminish the sense of accomplishment professionals derive from their work. This report serves as a factual overview of contemporary debates regarding the psychological and social costs of pervasive technology integration in modern society.

Employer demand for Psychology skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This shift demands that you prioritise human-centric skills over pure technical efficiency. As automation handles routine tasks, your ability to foster genuine connection and purpose becomes your primary competitive advantage. Focus on developing emotional intelligence, ethical reasoning, and critical thinking to navigate complex digital landscapes. You should actively seek roles that require nuanced judgment and interpersonal collaboration, rather than those easily automated. Consider integrating mindfulness and digital wellbeing strategies into your workflow to maintain productivity without burnout. Professionals who can balance technological leverage with meaningful human interaction will lead teams more effectively. Start by auditing your current tech usage to identify areas where automation reduces rather than enhances your sense of achievement and professional fulfilment.

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Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

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