My second topic is on the impact of technology on conflict.
The relationship between technology and conflict has undergone significant transformations after the World War II era. Analyzing the changing nature of war and the state since the mid-20th century provides valuable information into the complex effects between technological advancements and global affairs [1]. As technological shifts play a crucial role in shaping the future, concerns about negative trends, including climate crises and geopolitical challenges arise [2].
One notable aspect is the impact of technology on society and governance, explored in the context of global affairs. Scholars emphasize the need to navigate a middle ground that synthesizes findings from both optimistic and pessimistic perspectives, acknowledging both the potential benefits and risks associated with technological evolution [3].
Innovative technologies have proven to be powerful tools in conflict prevention efforts, signalling a shift toward a more technologically informed approach to maintaining stability and peace [4]. Additionally, information and communication technologies (ICTs) have been recognized for their role in conflict zones, both as potential tools for insurgency and as subjects of scholarly debate regarding their explosive capabilities [5].
Moreover, the concept of “Peace Tech” highlights the transformative impact of technological innovation on the development and resolution of conflicts globally [6]. The rapid pace of technological change continues to shape the landscape of global conflict, presenting both challenges and opportunities for policymakers and scholars alike.
🌐 Sources
OUP – Technology, war and the state: past, present and future
ORF – Technology, change, and the inevitability of conflict
JSTOR – Technology and Global Affairs
Stability Journal – New Technology and the Prevention of Violence and Conflict
Springer – The Impact of Information and Communication
USIP – How ‘Peace Tech’ is Changing Global Conflict