Impact of digital technology as a reliable source of input for rational decision making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with a suitable example. (150 words) [2021]
Digital technology has significantly impacted decision making.
Advantages of using digital technology as a source of input for decision making:
- Quick and easy access to large amounts of data and information
- Ability to consider a wider range of options and factors
- More informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information
Limitations of using digital technology as a source of input for decision making:
- Potential for bias in data and information
- Risk of relying too heavily on technology and lacking critical thinking and independent judgment
An example of the impact of digital technology on decision making can be seen in the use of data analytics and predictive modeling in the criminal justice system. These tools can help decision-makers, such as judges and parole boards, to make more informed decisions based on data about a person’s likelihood of reoffending. However, there are concerns that these tools may be biased against certain groups and could contribute to the perpetuation of systemic inequalities.
It is important for decision-makers to consider these potential biases and to use digital technology as just one source of input among many when making decisions.
![Sunil is a young civil servant and has a reputation for his competence, integrity, dedication and relentlessness in pursuit of difficult and onerous jobs. Considering his profile, he was picked up by his bosses to handle a very challenging and sensitive assignment. He was posted in a tribal-dominated district notorious for illegal sand mining. Excavating sand from river belts and transporting it through trucks and selling them in the black market was rampant. This illegal sand mining mafia was operating with the support of local functionaries and tribal musclemen who in turn were bribing selected poor tribals and had kept the tribals under fear and intimidation. Sunil being a sharp and energetic officer immediately grasped the ground realities and the modus operandi followed by the mafia through their devious and dubious mechanism. On making inquiries, he gathered that some of their own office employees are in hand and glove with them and have developed close unholy nexus. Sunil initiated stringent action against them and started conducting raids on their illegal operations of the movement of trucks filled with sand. The mafia got rattled as not many officers in the past had taken such strong steps against the mafia. Some of the office employees who were allegedly close to the mafia informed them that the officer is determined to clean up the mafia’s illegal sand mining operations in that district and may cause them irreparable damage. The mafia turned hostile and launched a counter-offensive. The tribal musclemen and mafia started threatening him with dire consequences. His family (wife and old mother) were stalked and were under virtual surveillance and thus causing mental torture, agony and stress to all of them. The matter assumed serious proportions when a muscleman came to his office and threatened him to stop raids etc., otherwise, his fate will not be different than some of his predecessors (ten years back one officer was killed by the mafia) [2021]](https://www.iasexpress.net/wp-content/uploads/content-views/cvp_default_image-600x300.png)
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