Digitalization as an Anthropological Challenge: Methodological Aspect

Abstract

The author of the article examines the methodological problems associated with the process of transition to a new, digital medium of information and the introduction of new, digital technologies into the daily life of society and a person taking place on a global scale. In this regard, the problem of identifying both positive aspects (opportunities, advantages) and negative aspects (risks, threats) that these technological innovations bring with them acquire a certain urgency. In the implementation of innovation policy to address this issue, the methodological principle of “challenge – response” is used, which is of an interdisciplinary complex nature. The article proposes a formulation of this principle. The history of its origin, formation and development during the 19th–20th centuries is traced on the example of natural and humanitarian sciences, such as biology, anthropology, history, psychology. Starting from the second half of the 20th century, this principle begins to be applied to the analysis of the future, which, in connection with a number of historical events, is beginning to be viewed as a global challenge that threatens society and people. The activities of the Club of Rome played an important role here. In the 21st century, in order to support the growth of the world economy, which does not demonstrate high performance, new digital projects and programs are beginning to actively transform our reality — the digital economy, medicine (healthcare), education, communications, leisure, etc.  They build on ideas expressed, inter alia, by Klaus Schwab at the Davos Forum in January 2017. These ideas are taken as a basis in our country as well. The expert and analytical report “Technological Revolution: Challenges and Opportunities for Russia” (2017) stands out here. This leads to the formation of a new “digital society” and “digital human”. In this regard, the need to use the “challenge — response” method in the analysis of various spheres of social life affected by the digitalization process becomes especially acute. Such studies are being carried out, but a separate article should be devoted to the consideration of this topic.