Prosthetics Technology
Britt Young’s story and the videos of the article tells us about the complexities and challenges faced by individuals with limb differences when it comes to prosthetic technology.
- Historical Evolution of Prosthetics: Prosthetic technology has a long history, with advancements often driven by military conflicts. Major leaps in prosthetic design occurred after the Civil War and during World War II, as the need for better prosthetic devices grew due to the high number of soldiers with limb amputations.
- Cost and Accessibility: High-tech prosthetic devices can be prohibitively expensive, with prices ranging from $20,000 to $100,000. Even with insurance, it can be challenging to secure coverage for such advanced prosthetics. This cost barrier restricts access for many individuals who may benefit from them.
- Societal Expectations: There can be societal pressure for people with limb differences to opt for high-tech prosthetics to meet others’ expectations. The perception that “bionic” limbs are cool and attention-grabbing can influence individuals’ choices.
- Realistic Expectations: Media often portrays advanced prosthetic technology in a positive light, but it may not reflect the real challenges and limitations faced by users. This can create unrealistic expectations about the capabilities of these devices.
- Individual Needs and Adaptations: Prosthetic solutions are not one-size-fits-all. People with limb differences have unique needs and preferences, and some may find that low-tech options or no prosthesis at all work better for them.
Britt Young’s story highlights the importance of considering individual needs, addressing cost barriers, and managing expectations in the field of prosthetic technology. The goal should be to empower individuals with limb differences to live fulfilling lives in a world that embraces diversity and inclusion.
The Value to Those Who Use Them
The value of technology should be measured not only by its capabilities but also by how well it meets the needs and expectations of its users. Young’s story serves as a reminder that the real-world challenges faced by individuals with limb differences extend beyond the capabilities of their prosthetic devices. While these high-tech innovations may garner attention and even admiration, they may not always align with the user’s lifestyle, comfort, or needs.
Cost is another critical factor that influences the value of technology to its users. High-tech prosthetic devices can be extremely expensive, with many individuals unable to access them due to financial barriers. This reality highlights the need for greater accessibility and affordability in the field of assistive technology.
The societal pressure for individuals with disability differences to adopt high-tech prosthetics also raises important questions about the role of technology in shaping our perception of disability. The media often portrays advanced prosthetic technology as a “savior” or a means to “fix” a person’s disability. This narrative can be misleading and may not accurately represent the diverse ways in which individuals with limb differences thrive and adapt.
Surveillance technology in workplaces.
Surveillance technology, including employee monitoring software and security cameras, was initially introduced in workplaces to enhance security, increase productivity, and ensure employee safety. The idea was to provide employers with tools to monitor and manage operations more effectively.
Over time, the use of surveillance technology in workplaces has raised concerns and resulted in unintended negative consequences for employees:
Privacy issue: Extensive workplace surveillance can lead to a significant invasion of employees’ privacy. Monitoring their every move, including internet activity, emails, and even restroom breaks, can create a culture of distrust and anxiety.
Stress and Anxiety: Constant surveillance can contribute to heightened stress and anxiety among employees. The fear of being constantly watched or judged can negatively impact their mental well-being, leading to decreased job satisfaction and even burnout. Excessive surveillance can also destroy the trust between employers and employees. When employees feel like they are being treated as suspects rather than trusted team members, it can harm workplace relationships and morale.
Productivity Loss: Paradoxically, the very technology designed to increase productivity can sometimes have the opposite effect. Employees may feel micromanaged and stressed, which can hinder their ability to focus and perform at their best.