Modern technology has come to dominate our lives. From Artificial Intelligence (AI) and smartphones to the Internet of Things (IoT), we increasingly rely on the marvels of technological advances in each aspect of our existence. Romance and dating are not an exception to the trend.
The Internet and concurrent globalization expanded dating pools and made long-distance relationships functional. In addition, popular dating apps, social networks, and even fitness trackers help us select partners that look compatible with our preferences.
So, how exactly do these technologies shape our romantic lives? This article explores the impact of digital tools on our chances of finding and maintaining meaningful relationships online.
Cure for Loneliness or Artificial Love?
Imagine a peasant in the Middle Ages and their dating pool. Probably, several villages around were the only available option. Besides, social status, gender ratio, physical appearance, dowry, family, and financial dynamics greatly impacted their mating success.
Despite matchmaker efforts, unlucky ones could have easily remained unmarried and partnerless for the rest of their lives. Even a non-sophisticated sex hookup could have required a Herculean labor.
Now think of that same peasant in our times: with just a smartphone in their pocket, they can easily find a match across continents, engage in virtual sex, or arrange a physical meet-up.
These tools allow you to set specific preferences for a potential mate, and then the algorithms select the most compatible people. At first glance, it looks like an almost perfect arrangement, helping circumvent a lengthy courtship process, where you would have to have several dates to get a fuller picture of your date’s personality.
Even if you are not looking for a long-term relationship but just a simple sex hookup, modern technology allows you to find a casual partner in your immediate vicinity swiftly. What’s more, by looking at your digital profile, they will know precisely and in detail what you are looking for in bed.
But has dating become genuinely better, or has love, as some critics would argue, turned into an artificially conditioned endeavor. On the one hand, AI can help find partners with compatible sex and life interests. Still, there is no 100% guarantee that a ‘situationship’ or a casual sex hookup will lead to a life-long, fulfilling partnership.
The human condition implies we are multifaceted creatures, especially when looking for a romantic partner. Unfortunately, we might fail in the dating market even with numerous technological tools.
Tech’s Impact on Privacy and Psychology
The rise in digital dating has become an object of scientific research. Despite its accessibility and simplicity, some experts warn against its detrimental effect on human well-being in the long run.
For instance, research also shows that those who feel fulfilled by only a no-commitment sex hookup might develop unhealthy relationship patterns and expectations. And vice-versa, individuals with existing severe personality disorders can easily target and harm potential prey.
Another problem is the pitfall of ‘picture perfect’ dating profiles. People lie in real life, but lies might go pretty much unchecked in the digital domain. There has been a steady rise in ‘dating scams’ that caused considerable financial and emotional damage to the victims.
Besides, using dating apps and social networks requires particular caution. Setting up a profile implies giving out some of your most precious data that might be stolen. In addition, sharing your intimate desires and photos with the wrong person can easily make your privacy vulnerable and even lead to blackmail.
But not everything is so bleak. Research also shows that starting a relationship online helps those who struggle with shyness and anxiety. For instance, outsourcing initial conversations and swiping to AI removes the psychological barrier. Having the first obstacles removed, the anxious people might increase their mating chances.
Conclusion
The impact of modern technology on dating is undeniable. The advent of dating apps and the digitalization of our lives has changed romantic dynamics worldwide. It is easier today to find a potential match by sweeping or outsourcing the whole process to AI. Notably, the dating pool is no longer limited by borders and geography.
However, neither apps nor fitness trackers or matchmaking websites guarantee a ‘happily ever after’ ending. Moreover, these technical tools come with inherent challenges, including privacy, emotional well-being, financial security, and the risks of developing addictive sex behavior.
Technology is a powerful tool but not a panacea for our romantic problems. Approaching online dating with an awareness of its benefits and limitations is the best way to keep your heart, pocket, and thoughts safe.
