Band 6+: It was predicted that people living in the twenty-first century would have more free time than ever before because of improvements in technology. To what extent has this prediction come true?

The era of significant technological growth, the twenty-first century, was expected to help humans increase their amount of leisure time. As far as I am concerned, the predicition has remained true to most people, however, it did not take into considerations the presence of certain groups.

For most of the population, technological advancements has lifted heavy weights off their shoulders regarding the responsibilities in work, allowing more time spent at their own will. Because of amazing inventions, such as telephones and washing machines, children in the poor countryside have more time to enjoy their childhood. Instead of having to do labour like being a part-time mailman or having to do tedious laundry work, they get to fully live out their young while these machines will sort these things out. For the elderlies, the major improvements of wheelchairs and artificial intelligence will largely cut off the need to take care of chores; therefore, leaving them able to prioritize meaningful pursuits.

On the other hand, times might have turned against those who work in the creative and entertainment industry. Celebrities are busier than ever, with their already packed schedules, they also need to be out-there, sharing their life, collaborating and filming brands’ commercials. With the growth of the media, they have to be up-to-date with the latest news, trying to stay trendy to make money. The press also face the same situation as they have to adapt to the cutting-edge technologies for best-quality reports. Compared to their work-life past, people working within these industries was demanded of much less work. Famous singers, for example, only needed to invest on their liveshows. Press publishers did not have to report every single minute of what is happening around the world, as the newspapers came out daily rather than hourly as of now.

All things considered, although developments in technology was forecasted to be giving us extra spare time and it is true for the majority of people, the ones who make a living out of the media were left out, particularly celebrities and press workers.