Modern technology has created more problems than solutions in society.

I. Many innovative inventions brought about by modern technology has had a positive impact on our society. The computer, for example, allows us immediate access to the worldwide web (WWW), and has caused physical distance to no longer be a barrier in communications. However, the use of modern technology has also given rise to several problems, such as the use of the Internet to view pornographic sites, and the depersonalisation os human relationships.

II. Modern technology has helped improve telecommunications in society.
Physical distance is no longer a barrier in communications, through the use of:
a. Telephones
b. Radio and television (easy access to latest news updates)

III. The use of modern technology has lowered dependency on manual labour, and increased efficiency of work.
The use of automated machines substitute or decrease the need for manpower. Examples are:
a. Household appliances (e.g. dishwashers, washing machines/dryers, vacuum cleaners. )
b. Factory equipment (e.g. electonic saws, cutters. )

IV. The creation of the WWW facilitates instant access to information around the world.
Numerous search engines are available for sourcing of information. Examples are Yahoo, Google, MSN etc.

V. One of the main problems created by the use of modern technology is the depersonalisation of human relationships.
Usage of computerised systems decrease the opportunity for person to person communication, and may lead to loss of interpersonal communication skills.

VI. In conclusion, the use of modern technology has, in many ways, benefitted us by improving telecommunications and allowing instant access to information around the world. While usage of modern technology may indirectly cause the loss of interpersonal communication skills, this can be avoided if we undertake necessary precautions. Furthermore, we cannot deny that technological advancements have indeed freed us to pursue our interests and goals. Hence, modern technology has created more solutions than problems in today's society.

"The family has suffered at the expense of career in Singapore society. " Is this a fair comment?

The primary factor that leads to the weakening of family ties, is little effort made by the family members in maintaining close ties. Even for working parents, it is hardly possible to be cooped up with work day and night. Thus, saying there is simply no time left for the family, is merely an excuse to divert the responsibility of caring for the family away from oneself.

It may be argued that full-time working mothers do not have sufficient time to interact with their children, as they are at the workplace in the day. What about the weekends, then? Since the implementation of the five-day work week, more family time has been made available. Families now have the time to go out for family outings, or spend the day at home with one another. To have quality time together, however short it is, reminds us that we are loved and cared for by our family. This greatly strengthens family ties. Therefore, it is both not valid and unfair to assume that families suffer as a result of working mothers.

However, it may be pointed out that in certain circumstances, the family may have suffered at the expense of career. For example, working adults may bring their unfinished work home, and on finishing it, no longer have time left to spend with the family. This lack of communication among family members gradually leads to strains in family relations, causing the family to suffer.

Although the above example can be a possible implication of having a career, it can just as well be avoided if working adults are conscious of their responsibility as part of the family, and thus strike a balance between work and family. Hence, it is unfair to comment that the family has suffered at the expense of career.