DIGITAL DEMENTIA: EVALUATING THE IMPACT ON TRADITIONAL VALUES IN PERSONAL AND SOCIETAL CONTEXTS

Abstract

This article investigates 'Digital Dementia', a term that metaphorically describes the cognitive and social consequences of excessive digital technology use, particularly its impact on the erosion of personal and societal values and ethical principles. Digital Dementia signifies not just a decline in cognitive and social skills due to digital overuse, but also a potential weakening of moral and ethical compasses, leading to a shift in traditional value systems. This interdisciplinary study views the phenomenon through sociological, psychological, and pastoral care lenses, offering a comprehensive analysis of its implications for individual behaviour and societal norms.

Sociologically, the paper examines the transformation of societal values in the wake of digital technology, highlighting a drift from established ethical standards and community-oriented principles. Psychologically, it explores how digital engagement affects individual cognition, behaviour, and value formation, potentially leading to a diminished capacity for empathy, critical thinking, and moral reasoning. The role of pastoral care is scrutinized in terms of guiding communities through the ethical challenges posed by digital advancements and preserving core values in the digital era.

Empirical studies are referenced to underscore the adverse effects of excessive screen time on memory and attention, the rise of 'phubbing' and 'digital zombies', and the resulting decline in the quality of social interactions and awareness. These findings point to a broader cultural shift where traditional values and ethical norms risk being eclipsed by digital culture’s demands.

This paper argues for a critical re-evaluation of the role of digital technology in shaping our moral landscape. It calls for an engaged response from social institutions, including religious organizations, to address the ethical implications of this digital transformation and to advocate for the preservation and revitalization of traditional values in a rapidly evolving digital world.