From 3400 BC to modern day, the way that we store information has drastically changed. Although in some ways this change can be viewed as better, there are some downfalls to modernization as well.
Advantages
– Data is more accurate in modern times than in 3400 BC. With online recording of data, there is more precision and accuracy than every before.
– We no longer need physical copies of records as they can all be placed online. We can view these recorded records on any digital device, such as a computer or our smartphones, making data much more accessible.
– Online data can immediately be accurately copied in the blink of an eye.
Limitations
– Modern-day digitization equipment is often quickly replaced (such as floppy disks), whereas physical copies of data will always be there and can last many years (unless they are damaged).
– Online data can be vulnerable to leaks or cyberhacking which can be a threat to the privacy of certain data.
Credits: ChatGPT
Question: (1) What is an example of fragility and technological dependence?
Answer: (1) Digital data’s fragility and dependence on technology can lead to significant information loss when storage mediums become obsolete or deteriorate. A notable example is NASA’s Viking missions to Mars in the 1970s. The mission data was stored on magnetic tapes that began to dry out and crack over time. Recognizing the potential loss of invaluable scientific information, NASA had to undertake extensive efforts to recover and preserve the data before it became irretrievable. Wikipedia+2Hailegal+2Wikipedia+2
This situation underscores the challenges of relying on specific technologies for data storage. As hardware and software evolve, older formats may become unreadable, emphasizing the need for proactive digital preservation strategies to safeguard information for future generations.