East West University

Department of Sociology
FALL 2023
Term Paper

Title: Impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on

Social Change: A Sociological Perspective

Course Code: SOC 7101

Course Title: Introduction to Sociology

Submitted by:

Name: Azmir Ataur Samir

ID: 2022-3-10-121

Submitted to:
Course Instructor: Manzuma Ahsan

An Assignment Submitted to the Department of Sociology at East West University, in partial

fulfillment of the Course – SOC 7101: Introduction to Sociology.

Date: 09 December 2023 (Saturday)

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 Table of Contents

Abstract: ................................................................................................................ 1
Introduction ........................................................................................................... 2
Globalization and Bangladeshi Dynamics: ........................................................... 2
Overview of the Issue ........................................................................................... 3
Relevance to the Theoretical Framework ............................................................. 4
Current Trends ...................................................................................................... 5
Impact of the Pandemic of COVID-19 ................................................................. 5
Conclusion ............................................................................................................ 6
References ............................................................................................................. 7

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 Abstract:

Bangladesh's economy and society has been profoundly affected by the Fourth Industrial
Revolution. Sheikh Hasina, the prime minister, has stressed the need to use The Fourth
Industrial Revolution tools in an ethical and responsible manner while arguing for
precautions against unfavorable outcomes. This essay will examine how fourth industrial
revolution has affected Bangladeshi society, with particular attention to globalization, its
effects both good and bad repercussions, and the steps taken by the government to adjust to
this rapid advancement in technology.

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 Introduction

The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which combines digital technologies and
makes it harder to distinguish between the digital, biological, and physical domains. It
describes how this revolution is different from the others in that it is happening at a speed
never seen before, affecting industries worldwide, and changing entire systems. AI-driven
technologies, digital fabrication, and the symbiosis between technology and biology are just a
few examples of the boundless possibilities that come with the fusion of technologies like
robotics, Internet of Things, and AI. The paper emphasizes that in order to navigate and
fully utilize the potential of this revolutionary era, stakeholders from a variety of sectors must
come together in a comprehensive and cooperative response. Bangladesh has acknowledged
the transformative potential of the fourth industrial revolution, guided by Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina's leadership. The core of this analysis is PM Hasina's emphasis on using The
Fourth Industrial Revolution tools to advance society while minimizing negative effects.

Globalization and Bangladeshi Dynamics:

By removing geographical obstacles and promoting connectivity, the Fourth Industrial

Revolution has expedited globalization. Bangladesh, a country well-known for its textile
industry and rapidly growing technology sector, has experienced a greater degree of
economic integration worldwide. The country's attempts to conform to technological progress
are indicative of its aspiration to sustain its competitiveness in the global arena.

Positive Impact:
Economic Growth: Globalization facilitated Bangladesh's integration into the global
economy, driving economic growth through trade liberalization, foreign investments, and
access to international markets.

Industrial Development: The country experienced a surge in industries like garments,

contributing to employment generation, particularly for women, and boosting GDP.

Technological Advancements: Access to global technologies and information accelerated

development, fostering innovation and digital transformation.

Education and Awareness: Globalization brought opportunities for education, skill

development, and exposure to diverse ideas and cultures.

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Negative Impact:
Income Inequality: Despite economic growth, income inequality persists, exacerbating
social disparities between urban and rural areas.

Environmental Concerns: Rapid industrialization led to environmental degradation,

impacting natural resources, and raising ecological concerns.

Cultural Influence: While embracing global cultures, there's a risk of eroding traditional
values and cultural identity.

Labor Exploitation: Despite employment gains, issues like low wages, poor working
conditions, and labor rights violations remain prevalent in some sectors.

Overview of the Issue

The fourth industrial revolution introduces an array of technological advancements, posing

challenges and opportunities to society. While technological innovations promise efficiency
and progress, there is a growing concern regarding potential adverse effects on individuals
and communities. As emphasized by PM Hasina, there's a pressing need to ensure that these
advancements do not harm or further divide societies. This issue raises questions about the
ethical use of technology, the digital divide, and its influence on social structures.

Prime Minister Hasina's concern regarding the potential misuse of fourth industrial revolution
tools reflects the apprehension surrounding technological advancements undermining human
values and societal harmony. Her emphasis on cybersecurity, combating disinformation, and
bridging societal divides highlights the critical challenges faced in adopting and adapting to
these revolutionary technologies without causing social disruption.

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 Relevance to the Theoretical Framework

The fourth industrial revolution introduces an array of technological advancements, posing

challenges and opportunities to society. While technological innovations promise efficiency
and progress, there is a growing concern regarding potential adverse effects on individuals
and communities. As emphasized by PM Hasina, there's a pressing need to ensure that these
advancements do not harm or further divide societies. This issue raises questions about the
ethical use of technology, the digital divide, and its influence on social structures.

Functionalism: From a functionalist perspective, the fourth industrial revolution contributes

to societal evolution by serving various functions. Technology enhances productivity,
facilitates communication, and enables access to information. However, concerns arise
regarding the unequal distribution of technological benefits, exacerbating existing social
inequalities.

Conflict Theory: Conflict theorists highlight the potential for technology to exacerbate
social divisions. The fourth industrial revolution might widen the gap between the
technologically proficient and those lacking access or skills. This can create disparities in
employment, education, and opportunities, leading to social unrest and stratification.

Symbolic Interactionism: The fourth industrial revolution alters social interactions and
cultural norms. Virtual spaces and digital platforms redefine communication patterns, shaping
new forms of relationships and identities. However, concerns arise about the impact of
increased screen time on face-to-face interactions and the authenticity of virtual relationships.

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 Current Trends

Bangladesh is actively seeking ways to take advantage of fourth industrial revolution. The
Smart Leadership Academy is being introduced, specialized institutes for frontier
technologies are being established, creative robotics student projects are being encouraged,
and national strategies on artificial intelligence are being developed. These initiatives
demonstrate Bangladesh's dedication to fourth industrial revolution -aligned skill
development and technology advancement.

Impact of the Pandemic of COVID-19

Bangladesh's adoption of technology in education was expedited by the COVID-19

pandemic. In order to ensure continuous learning, the government transformed the Parliament
TV channel into an education channel and made textbooks available online through
"Muktopathh." The pandemic brought blended learning to light and made adjustments to
assessment protocols necessary to prevent learning losses.

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 Conclusion

Bangladesh's proactive approach under Prime Minister Hasina's leadership toward embracing
the fourth industrial revolution highlights how crucial it is to strike a balance between societal
well-being and technological advancements. Although significant progress has been achieved
in utilizing technology for education and equipping young people for the future, policy
frameworks need to incorporate preventive measures against possible adverse effects, like
cyber threats and societal divisions.

In conclusion, Bangladesh is poised for a significant shift powered by the Fourth Industrial
Revolution. In order to ensure that technological advancements are in line with societal
values, diversity, and sustainable development, it is essential that policymakers, institutions,
and stakeholders collaborate effectively.

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 References

1. https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/dont-allow-fourth-industrial-revolution-undermine-
humanity-pm-hasina-650410

2. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fourth_Industrial_Revolution

3. https://www.thedailystar.net/recovering-covid-reinventing-our-future/fourth-industrial-
revolution-and-digital-transformation/news/the-fourth-industrial-revolutions-impact-the

4. https://cgs-bd.com/article/5873/The-Changing-Social-Structure-of-Bangladesh

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