It is widely argued that individuals are increasingly becoming more independent and less reliant on others. I contend that, in fact, people are living more independently than at any previous time.
There are several primary reasons why some people argue that independence is increasing in the modern world. One significant factor is the global advancement of technology, which increasingly fulfills various aspects of daily life. As technology becomes more integral to our lives, it can indeed change the way we interact and form relationships. Consequently, this shift could lead to a perception that people are more independent. For example, technology creates complex networks of interaction, which can lead to people being less dependent on each other than before. Moreover, modern life has fostered greater independence. The proliferation of technology and automation has empowered individuals to accomplish tasks that previously required collaboration or external help. Online resources allow people to learn, work, and manage many aspects of their lives independently. Additionally, the rise of remote work and gig economies offers individuals more autonomy in their professional lives.
On one hand, people are becoming more dependent on each other because of financial pressures from rising inflation. Many young adults and recent graduates struggle to afford living expenses on their own. For example, in cities like Shanghai, high housing costs force many young workers to live with their parents. Additionally, the competitive job market requires teamwork and collaboration in business, which strengthens social connections. However, these dependencies may be temporary. As economic conditions change, people might find ways to overcome these challenges and become more independent in the future.
In conclusion, while financial pressures and a competitive market increase dependency, advancements in new technology, and the Internet are likely to promote greater independence for individuals.