1.1 What is the function of the rhetorical question in the by-line, 'The Rise of the Machines .. - NSC English HL - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 1

Humans may be viewed as deficient because they lack the efficiency and precision of machines. This perspective suggests that in a technologically driven world, human limitations are increasingly emphasized in comparison to machine capabilities.

The contradiction lies in the fact that while password protection is intended to safeguard user information, the act of sharing personal information with manufacturers undermines this privacy. Users may think they are secure, yet their data is still vulnerable to exploitation.

Paragraph 3 elaborates on the implications of technological advancements, discussing how users often relinquish control of their data in exchange for convenience, which poses ethical questions about privacy.

Valuable intelligence refers to consumer data that manufacturers utilize for targeted advertising. This information allows them to tailor products and marketing strategies to specific demographics, maximizing their effectiveness in the digital market.

The aside creates a conversational tone, emphasizing the writer's urgency in conveying the seriousness of technological implications. It invites readers to reflect on their understanding and awareness of the issues being presented.

The irony in paragraph 6 arises from the notion that machines, often viewed as tools of progress, may ultimately undermine human agency and decision-making, suggesting that reliance on technology could lead to a loss of control for humanity.

Paragraphs 7 and 8 discuss the societal impact of technological advancements, highlighting the widening gap between those who benefit from these technologies and those who do not, suggesting a potential divide in access and opportunity.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution is set to transform labor markets and societal structures, potentially leading to increased unemployment and widening economic inequality. It challenges traditional notions of work and prompts a reevaluation of skills needed for the future.

These paragraphs illustrate contrasting perspectives on the future, with one character embracing technological advancements and the other expressing skepticism about their effects, highlighting the nuances of human-machine interaction.

In my opinion, the writer's viewpoint is convincing as it balances optimism about technological progress with caution regarding its implications. The exploration of both characters' perspectives provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding technology's role in society.