The rise of artificial intelligence offers a stark and accessible example of how technology can be misused—driven by profit and control at the expense of people, communities, and the environment.
A difficult truth we must confront is that new technologies—whether in the form of methods, machines, or information—have often been adopted with little regard for the consequences they bring to those displaced by their implementation.
The prioritisation of technology over humanity has not only led to the loss of jobs, businesses, and local economies. It has also ushered in more exploitative and dehumanising working conditions for both adults and children. In many cases, human lives have been treated as expendable, so long as the final product appears perfect and profitable—concealing the harsh realities of its creation.
Technology and innovation themselves are not the enemy. The real threat lies in the motives of those who pursue profit and power, seeking to build a world tailored to their own interests while disregarding the value of others. What could have been a golden age for humanity is instead becoming a moment where humanity’s very existence is at risk.
If we continue to allow technology to be controlled by narrow interests—those who manipulate governance systems to serve themselves—we risk a future where human life is increasingly devalued.
Even the few who currently hold power may find that the very technologies they’ve harnessed will ultimately destroy them, or the environment they’ve shaped for their own survival.
The evidence of technological misuse is already clear. We must not allow systems that enable such manipulation to persist.
Future frameworks for governance must quietly but firmly embed safeguards that protect people.
These systems should make it clear that jobs and community contributions are more valuable than any technology designed to eliminate them.
The worth of human work and its role in society must always outweigh the perceived convenience or efficiency of technological replacements.
No matter how advanced technology becomes, the importance of meaningful work—for every individual and for the health of our communities—must always surpass the allure of automation.
Adam Tugwell 
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