Question

"Smart technology sensors measure (or will measure) the traffic on

every street, the movement of every car, and the temperatures of
and shadows cast by buildings. They also will track the water and
electricity consumption of every household and will note the time
whenever a household toilet is flushed.
Excerpt from National Geographic, Jared Diamond
Analyze the passage above to determine which element of culture is being described.
O Institutions
O Religion
O Language
O Technology"

Answer 1

The passage is discussing how smart technology is deeply integrated into society, shaping daily life and raising important questions about surveillance, privacy, and the balance between convenience and individual freedoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passage describes the use of smart technology and sensors that have the capabilities to measure traffic, monitor cars, track temperatures and shadows cast by buildings, and even record the water and electricity consumption and toilet usage of households. This level of comprehensive data collection and interaction with users signifies the integration of technology into the fabric of daily life, playing a critical role in how individuals and societies function. It could be considered as an 'extra organ' for sensation and communication due to its ubiquitous presence in peoples' lives. This integration of technology in nearly all aspects of life hints at not merely a cultural element but a transformation in the way society operates.

Such technological advancements can also be seen from a social control perspective, where digital surveillance is becoming an increasingly normal part of modern existence. These developments raise questions about privacy, the limits of surveillance, and the balance between security and freedom. Technology not only enables immense convenience and efficiency but also presents new challenges and ethical considerations that society must address.