Leszek Socha presents a critical analysis of digital and social exclusion, with particular emphasis on the problems affecting older generations. The author accuses the political class of cynicism, arguing that politicians first brought about the marginalization of certain groups themselves and now use slogans about fighting exclusion solely for marketing purposes. The main topic is the technological barrier that causes everyday activities, such as using parking meters or handling official formalities online, to become a source of humiliation for seniors.
A column by Leszek Socha
Knowledge of modern technology and how to use it is essential for functioning today. The state warns people not to do certain things because they may lose their property or someone may take out a loan in their name and seize their funds. One must keep electronic accounts, make transfers, issue electronic invoices, and correspondence with public offices is digital. Megabytes, bits and other terms. You go to a store to buy a scale, a dashboard camera, a television, a radio, a refrigerator or other equipment, and salespeople often see in front of them someone who does not understand the subject and do not always provide honest information about the purchase; later, such a digitally excluded person quite often becomes the object of mockery by friends and even family because they allowed something to be foisted on them. This is almost the norm, because companies develop algorithms for “pushing” products, that is, emptying warehouses, and these methods are sometimes even rewarded.
Horror with parking meters
What is more, cities in Poland are introducing zone programs under the pretext of clean air and requiring fees to be paid at so-called parking meters. Parking meters are so complicated that few people know how to operate them. Not only do they violate the GDPR and civil liberties, but they also contain convoluted procedures that create an obstacle for many people. Problems operating parking meters are faced mainly by older people unfamiliar with the rules and operation of these devices, as well as with the fine print. Older people often fall victim to parking companies and pay fines or have to ask for help. Many of them prefer to stop on the outskirts of the city and walk to a hospital, public office or the shops.
I know that many will mock victims of genuine exclusion simply because they are old. I myself often encounter jibes that something is simple and that I do not know how to do it. Even though I know quite a lot, it is still only a fraction of what is necessary to safely operate many devices. Not everyone has the courage to ask for help. Many, however, are humiliated or feel that way. What is simple for the generation of the electronic age is no longer so for my generation.
Politicians are hurting seniors
I know there are courses for seniors on this subject, but how many of them can take advantage of them? Many older people cannot participate in training for various reasons that could be listed endlessly. Politicians do not even realize how badly an enormous social group has been harmed – let us call it the electronic exclusion group. Many will not admit how they are treated in public offices, stores, at toll booths and so on.
I hope this subject and the scale of the gap between analog life and the electronic era will amuse politicians. I spent my entire working life without computers; in the countryside there were three to five telephones, and offices had typewriters. To call an ambulance, one had to wake the village head, a priest or another lucky person with a telephone.
Unprepared for the technological leap
My generation was not and is not prepared for such a great technological leap in all areas of life. The state and society have left the “army” of old and older people to fend for themselves. In a parking lot in front of a supermarket with parking meters, I watched an older man – perhaps older than me – trying to deal with the device. After a while people began urging him to hurry, and he gave up. When he tried again and the situation was repeated, he simply walked away.
Perhaps I am raising this subject unnecessarily and may get attacked myself, but electronic and technological exclusion exists in Poland and no one cares. People live with a sense of exclusion and humiliation, and I see no one willing to address it. If something is not talked about openly, it is either a “rotten egg” or too difficult a subject because it may not be politically profitable. Nevertheless, I ask young people to be understanding and help those who are less familiar with technology, and politicians to pay attention to this problem.