Technological evolution: the past defining our future

Preamble
This essay examines the interplay between technological evolution and humanity,
emphasising how adaptation and tool development have been crucial for human
survival and progress. It delves into the effects of technological revolutions as
recurring cycles of historical transformation and addresses the challenges posed by
the rapid acceleration of technological progress relative to human evolution. Addi
tionally, it underscores the importance of retrospective, introspective, and pro
spective analysis in science to ensure that technological achievements remain a
beneficial tool for people, highlighting that the future of science inherently shapes
the future of humanity.
 Evolution is the ability of living organisms to adapt to environmental changes. These changes can only be observed over time because they occur gradually in response to the surrounding environment. 
The evolutionary process, spanning thousands of years, enabled humans to establish their presence on Earth. This process can be interpreted in various ways, but all interpretations converge on the emergence of science as the framework through which humans understand themselves and their environment.
This laid the groundwork for the scientific method, as humans initially had to reflect to find the answers they sought, thereby articulating diverse forms of knowledge. In this manner, human activity evolved into scientific activity, and time became closely associated with knowledge acquisition.
Theoretical advancements necessitated practical advancements, involving the development of methods and tools to utilise this knowledge effectively. As a result, science became the foundational basis for human survival across all societies.
 The survival instinct, fuelled by the need to overcome challenges, motivates humans to create methods and tools essential for survival. What we refer to as technology is essentially a body of theoretical knowledge transformed into tangible and intangible instruments that aid us in overcoming these obstacles.
 Humanity’s survival is contingent upon its ability to adapt to its environment, and the invention of tools has been instrumental in securing its existence. Tech nological evolution has been an inherent trait since the earliest stages of human existence, as we have continually struggled to survive in hostile environments.
 However, it is precisely the hostile environments that have driven humans to overcome imperfections and instead find opportunities in adversity to expand their knowledge.
 Once we understand that evolution is inherent to our nature, we can see that technology accompanies us throughout this evolutionary journey. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognise that human evolution does not progress at the same rate as technological evolution. Adapting to these changes in a timely manner is not just a challenge for humanity; it is essential for its very survival.
 Technological evolution can only be fully appreciated in retrospect, as it involves the accumulation of successive advancements. Periodically, it becomes necessary to identify cycles due to the inherent complexity of analysing all these developments collectively.
 Technological revolutions represent these cyclical beginnings and endings, comprising a series of advancements that define the mode of existence during a particular era. When these are surpassed by new developments, a new cycle com mences, repeating the process until the spatial and temporal barriers of each era are overcome.
 In this sense, it is useless to admire the present without acknowledging the past, as it provides the foundation upon which we build. To truly assess techno logical progress, it is essential to recognise the historical process that has been the result of efforts by scientists and researchers. A thorough retrospective analysis reveals that it is only over time that previously insurmountable barriers have been overcome.
 Given the impossibility of detailing every event that contributed to this evo lution, we can consider the last century as a prime example. The 20th century witnessed unprecedented scientific advancements across all fields, marked by numerous events and inventions that forever altered the course of humanity, even if they are now overshadowed by the promise of the future.
Science across all disciplines must reconsider its unique role within the diverse landscape of knowledge, which has been, is, and will continue to be the most effec tive tool for navigating the uncertainties of the future. This is why, in light of the increasingly rapid technological evolution, there must be space for reflection. 
 Perhaps the most significant challenge of our era is to critically examine both the positive and negative consequences of scientific output, as these will form the foundation upon which future generations will build their lives. 
 The space for reflection requires acknowledging the diverse forms of knowl edge, as they all contribute to science in its broadest sense. The universe offers an infinite expanse of discoveries, yet humans can only derive finite wisdom from it.
 The belief that there is no guide to shape the future undermines the signifi cance of the present and erases the past, which has given humanity its meaning. Therefore, it is essential to start by recognising the importance of each event in shaping history.
 Evolution is like a continuous thread with a beginning but of no end. Currently, we are experiencing both technological evolution and revolution. This revolution coincided with the start of the new millennium and the digital era, marked by wide spread Internet use. As a result, globalisation reached its zenith, as new technolo gies spread globally, creating a digital society comprising billions of users.
 In this context, science finds an ideal opportunity to identify both challenges and opportunities in a globalised world. This fertile ground is ripe for analysis, leading to the discovery of new knowledge as science strives for objectivity that addresses the urgent needs of 21st-century society.
 Technological evolution is an integral part of the unyielding scientific spirit that has accompanied humanity throughout history, but it now plays a unique role by making its tools accessible to all people. Undoubtedly, times have changed, and with them, the role of scientists has been transformed. The greatest challenge lies in conducting retrospective, prospective, and introspective analyses to measure its impact.
 The future of science is inextricably linked with the future of humanity.