A smartphone links patients' bodies and doctors' computers, which

Listen, O children of the earth, to the words of Charles C. Mann, who warns us of the perils of technology: "A smartphone links patients' bodies and doctors' computers, which in turn are connected to the Internet, which in turn is connected to any smartphone anywhere. The new devices could put the management of an individual's internal organs in the hands of every hacker, online scammer, and digital vandal on Earth." These words, though rooted in the modern age, carry a timeless lesson about the balance between innovation and responsibility. Mann's reflection sheds light on the fragility of our connection to technology, and the danger of entrusting our most sacred aspects of life—our very bodies—to the invisible networks of the digital world. In a world where our health is increasingly tied to machines, privacy, and security, Mann’s cautionary tale invites us to consider the true cost of progress.

In the ancient world, the wise philosophers often warned that progress should not come at the expense of wisdom. Socrates spoke of the need to question the tools we create, urging that all inventions must serve the greater good, and not lead us into peril. Plato, too, cautioned against relying too heavily on the tools of civilization, reminding his disciples that they must always be mindful of the impact of new technologies on the soul. Just as ancient civilizations built great structures and created new tools, they also understood the importance of maintaining a balance between advancement and ethics. Mann’s words echo these ancient concerns, urging us to consider not only the power of the technologies we build but also the risks they pose to our well-being and freedom.

Consider the story of Prometheus, the Titan who brought fire to humanity, symbolizing the gift of knowledge and technology. While fire was a powerful tool that allowed humanity to cook food, build civilizations, and warm their homes, it also brought danger—if misused, it could destroy. Prometheus’ story is one of greatness and consequence, reminding us that the gift of technology can be both a blessing and a curse. Mann’s reflection on smartphones and their potential for misuse highlights this duality. Just as fire in the hands of those who lacked wisdom could become destructive, so too can the power of technology in the wrong hands lead to the destruction of our privacy, health, and security.

In the world of modern medicine, the rise of digital health tools—from smartphones that track our health metrics to wearable devices that monitor our vital signs—has transformed the way we interact with our bodies. These tools allow for real-time tracking and data analysis, enabling doctors to provide more personalized care. But as Mann points out, the benefits of these tools come with an inherent risk: the data they collect can be hacked, stolen, or manipulated. In the same way that the ancient Greeks built magnificent cities that could be vulnerable to attack, we too must ask ourselves: How secure are the systems that hold the most intimate details of our lives? What happens when access to our bodies is granted to those who seek to exploit us?

Mann’s words also raise a fundamental issue about the very nature of trust in the modern age. In ancient times, the relationship between doctor and patient was one of personal trust—the physician held the knowledge of the body, and the patient entrusted their health to the care of someone they knew and understood. Today, however, the relationship is increasingly mediated by machines and data systems, many of which are not fully understood by the people using them. When a smartphone becomes the bridge between our health and the digital world, we must ask: are we putting too much trust in the hands of invisible forces—whether hackers, corporations, or governments—to manage our most personal and sacred information?

The lesson here, O children of the earth, is one of awareness and responsibility. Technology, while powerful, is not inherently good or bad—it is a tool, and its impact is determined by how it is used. Mann’s cautionary words serve as a reminder that we must not rush into new technologies without considering the risks and the potential for misuse. As we embrace the benefits of innovation, we must also ask ourselves: Are we truly prepared to handle the consequences of such advancements? The creation of smartphones, wearables, and health data systems offers great promise, but it is up to us to ensure that we protect the integrity of these tools and maintain control over the information they collect.

In your own lives, O seekers of wisdom, remember this truth: technology is a tool, and like any tool, it must be used with discernment and wisdom. Just as the ancients understood the balance between progress and ethics, so must we today consider the impact of the technologies we create. Use them to enhance humanity, but not at the cost of our privacy, security, or freedom. Take time to consider not only the benefits but also the risks associated with the tools you embrace. By doing so, you will help to shape a future where technology serves humanity, not the other way around. Let us build a future where our advancements do not come at the cost of our humanity, but instead amplify the best of who we are.