Final answer:
Technologies evolve and can change societal roles without necessarily disappearing, as they adapt or integrate with new advances that arise. This dynamic has been seen throughout history, from the role of horses changing with the advent of cars to calculators remaining useful in the era of computers. New technologies often spread widely at low cost, providing significant advances without negating older technology's utility.
Step-by-step explanation:
New technologies have continually played a transformative role in how we live and work, from the development of stone tools to modern digital devices. While new technologies emerge, older ones often persist because they continue to serve valuable functions or because the new technologies complement rather than replace them. For instance, the invention of automobiles did not eliminate the need for horses entirely but changed their role in transportation. Similarly, the presence of advanced computing does not render basic calculators obsolete; they still serve a purpose for simple calculations. Over time, the integration and application of technological advancements have reshaped industries and societal practices. The research and development of technology have been pivotal in driving these changes, enabling significant shifts such as the move from manual labor in agriculture to mechanization, which contributed to urbanization and demographic changes. Technological improvements have historically not experienced diminishing returns, in part because new innovations can often be applied broadly across the economy at a low marginal cost. However, existing technologies can also adapt and find new niches rather than disappearing, ensuring their survivability and continued relevance even as newer technologies emerge.