Technology with Humanity

Spiritual Exercise as Techne: Philosophy as a Way of Liberating Education is the article that I have been discussing in educators forum. Recent studies have shown a sharp increase in student suicides in Taiwan, and this has struck me deeply as someone who has explored the role of technology in education both through personal research and discussions in various forums. It’s made me question how our education systems, driven by technology, often prioritize productivity over personal well-being. From a philosophical standpoint, especially Aristotle’s concept of techne, life should be about cultivating meaning and growth, not just efficiency.

In my readings and conversations, I've seen how this emphasis on results and outputs impacts mental health, especially among students. The pressure to "perform" is turning education into a process of commodifying students, reducing them to their academic or professional worth. I believe that while technology brings incredible tools to the table, it also risks stripping away the personal and human elements of education—elements that foster true growth and well-being.

With rising mental health challenges, especially among students, it’s clear that the focus on productivity can come at a cost. The question is: as technology becomes more integrated into our lives, are we using it to grow as individuals, or are we letting it define our worth?

From my perspective, the challenge is ensuring that technology serves humanity, not the other way around. How can we innovate without losing our sense of self and purpose? How do we maintain a balance where technology supports personal growth rather than driving us toward burnout? I’d love to hear your thoughts.