Technological progress is transforming our lives with innovations that enhance quality of life and productivity.
Technological progress is the process by which new technologies are developed and existing technologies are improved, thereby leading to an improved quality of life and productivity. For instance, it includes the development of the Internet, smartphones, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy. Thanks to technological advances, we have access to faster and more advanced tools that make everyday life easier. These innovations also contribute to the development of various fields, such as medicine, education, and communications.
Technological progress vs. cultural progress
Technological progress and spiritual (cultural) progress are two different but interrelated aspects of human development. The creation and improvement of tools and technologies aim to enhance the quality of life and efficiency of work. Spiritual and cultural progress, on the other hand, refers to the development of values, norms, beliefs and practices that shape our identity and way of life.
Harmony between these two types of progress is crucial. Technology can support spiritual development, for example by facilitating access to education and information, but it cannot replace spiritual values and reflection. Without a spiritual and cultural foundation, technological progress can lead to materialism and a loss of meaning in life. Therefore, it is important that technological development go hand in hand with reflection on the values and goals we want to achieve as a society.
Technological progress, while extremely important, must be balanced by spiritual and cultural development to benefit society as a whole.
Contemporary studies
Research on technological advances reveals its multifaceted impact on various areas of life. Specifically, the concept of digital humanism, developed by Nikitenko and other co-authors (2025), emphasizes the importance of human interaction with technology. Moreover, this is especially relevant in the context of the Internet and artificial intelligence. The authors point out that technological advances should incorporate humanistic values to serve social well-being and improve society’s quality of life. Caro-Carretero (2024), on the other hand, examines how advanced space technologies can support sustainable development goals by contributing to innovation and technological sustainability.
Finally, Santilli and a team of researchers (2024) analyze the impact of technological advances on the quality of life of adults with disabilities. They emphasize the importance of inclusion and social justice in the context of sustainable development. These studies show that technological progress, while extremely important, must be balanced by spiritual and cultural development to benefit society as a whole.
Bibliography
Caro-Carretero, R. (2024). Fostering Technological Progress in Space Exploration to Drive Sustainable Development Goals. European Public & Social Innovation Review, 10, 1–19. https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2025-323
Nikitenko, V., Voronkova, V., Oleksenko, R., Kyvliuk, O., Klochek, L., Koliada, N., … & Drachuk, M. (2025). Developing the Concept of Digital Humanism as Human Interaction with Artificial Intelligence. Pakistan Journal of Life & Social Sciences, 23(1), 238-248. https://doi.org/10.57239/PJLSS-2025-23.1.0021
Santilli, S., Ginevra, M. C., Bishop, C., & Nota, L. (2024). After Us, Together With Us. Quality of Life in Adults with Disabilities in an Inclusive and Sustainable Future. Journal of Policy and Practice in Intellectual Disabilities, 21(4), e12527. https://doi.org/10.1111/jppi.12527