Communications
Just a few years back, when telephones were immobile and mechanically dialled a man said, "I can foresee a ring of satellites encircling the Earth which will enable communications to anywhere on the planet". That was Arthur C Clarke and he was right, wasn't he? In this year 2010 our planet is saturated with communications systems, which must appear like a firework display to anyone listening out in the cosmos. Communications, as with many other facilities, are managed by computer technology and have become vital to our society's survival in it's current form. Radio and orbital telescopes now enable us to see further into the universe than ever before, contributing to our understanding and knowledge. But, even a transmission, travelling at light speed, will take four years to reach our nearest star. We will need a different method of communication if we are to keep in touch whilst away on deep space exploration in the future. One of those fictional shortcuts through the fabric of space, maybe?
Communications is not just about humans staying in touch. It is the very essence of maintaining coordination and cooperation in complex systems, enabling them to function in unity and sequence to produce a specific result. As an example, consider the flight of modern jet aircraft. Such complex machinery could not achieve flight if it's many systems did not perform in unity and the correct sequence. The Eurofighter (Typhoon) is a prime example. Without it's internal computers communicating with the flying surfaces, it would not fly. All the operational components in these machines are in communication with each other or external systems, either electrically or mechanically. The ability to pass information around is so integrated with our society that, if it were to stop, we would lose our social structure and descend into chaos.
A more subtle and long term effect of communications is the disintegration of cultural, racial, economic and educational barriers. As information is spread around the planet we all see how others live and the quality of life they enjoy or not. It raises expectations in those not so fortunate and promotes population migration. It sweeps away the mystery that so often cloaks human society's and with it, if we're lucky, goes prejudice.
Communications technology is a 21st century catalyst. It exposes human failings and social imbalance. It provides a platform for understanding and rectification. All we have to do is utilise it.
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