Final answer:
Technology influences our sense of self by shaping how we create online identities and interact within social groups. Concerns about online privacy and the effects of technology on behavior persist, paralleling historical worries such as those expressed by Socrates regarding the advent of writing. Technology's role in forming and altering identity and community is complex, with both opportunities and risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Technology influences and alters our sense of self by enabling us to create online identities that can be distinct from our real-life personas. This can lead to both social homogenization, where cultural diversity is diminished due to widespread adoption of dominant cultural norms, and social fragmentation, where individuals find themselves part of niche communities. The process of forming and shaping our identities is complex and influenced by numerous socio-cultural factors, including the media, which constantly exposes us to images and ideas of how we should be or act.
Online privacy, security, and control are significant concerns in a world where our online presence can leave us vulnerable to various risks. The Pew Research Center reports evolving perceptions of these risks among Americans. Smartphones, as theorized by Miller, become extensions of our identities, reflecting our social affiliations and personal preferences.
The impact of technology on social relationships is observable in the diversity of our primary and secondary groups. Online platforms can increase the number of primary groups one can be a part of, creating a potential for having primary groups composed of individuals we've never met in person. This alteration of traditional social structures prompts us to reflect on the definition of a primary group and the authenticity of online connections.
Lastly, the access to technology is a double-edged sword that both presents greater opportunities and raises concerns about the effects of new technologies on behavior and cognition. Since ancient times, with philosophers like Socrates expressing concerns about evolving technologies, there has been an awareness of technology's potential to influence our daily lives profoundly. Today, as technology continues to permeate various aspects of our lives, from smart homes to social media, these challenges remain relevant.