The proliferation of service robots and the expansion of data centers are reshaping societies in profound ways. These technological advancements, while offering unprecedented opportunities, also present significant challenges. Service robots, ranging from automated vacuum cleaners to sophisticated surgical assistants, are increasingly integrated into our daily lives. This automation promises increased efficiency and productivity across various sectors, from healthcare and manufacturing to hospitality and logistics. However, concerns remain about the potential displacement of human workers, the ethical implications of autonomous decision-making by robots, and the widening socioeconomic gap between those who benefit from technological advancements and those who are left behind. Data centers, the backbone of the digital age, are consuming vast amounts of energy and resources. Their construction and operation contribute significantly to carbon emissions, raising environmental concerns. The massive data they process also presents privacy and security challenges, as personal information is increasingly vulnerable to breaches and misuse. Furthermore, the concentration of power in the hands of a few large technology companies that operate these data centers raises questions about market dominance and potential monopolies. The interconnectedness of these two technological advancements is undeniable. The data generated by service robots contributes to the immense data load processed by data centers, feeding algorithms that enhance robot performance and capabilities. However, this interconnectedness also amplifies the societal challenges. Increased reliance on data-driven decision-making by robots can lead to bias and discrimination if the algorithms used are not carefully designed and monitored. The environmental impact of both service robots and data centers must be considered holistically, as they contribute cumulatively to global resource consumption and environmental degradation. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving technological innovation, policy interventions, and a broader societal dialogue about the future of work, data privacy, and environmental sustainability.
1. According to the passage, what is a major concern regarding the increasing use of service robots?
2. What is a significant environmental concern associated with data centers?
3. What is the main idea of the passage's concluding paragraph?
4. The passage suggests that the ethical implications of autonomous decision-making by robots are primarily concerned with:
5. Which of the following best summarizes the passage's overall perspective on the relationship between service robots, data centers, and societal change?