Communication and relationships in the digital age.

Developments in technology over the past decade have been astounding and, as a result, the world we live in is increasingly becoming digital. We use communication technology and participate in social media platforms on a daily basis. Many of us converse with chatbots, participate in virtual simulations, or play virtual games. The popularity of cryptocurrency, microchipping, bio-hacking and digital relationships is growing. As the digital reality increases and envelops practically every aspect of human life, we are becoming increasingly dependent on technology. Technological devices are becoming our best friends and we are being shaped and molded by technology. Are genuine human relationships, conversations and dialogue possible in such a world? This paper explores the issue using as a starting point Ellul’s (1964) concept of technique. Ellul believed that the objectifying power of technique that transforms everyone and everything into means was getting out of human control. What we are witnessing nowadays may even be a stage in which humans may have already lost control and accepted a value system that undermines genuine human relationships and raises questions about 21st century ethics and the future of ethics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]