Over half of Brits believe that technology can create a kinder society, according to new research from Lenovo.
Kindness Gap
New research from Lenovo reveals a ‘kindness gap’ embedded within UK society. More than four fifths (82%) of UK citizens place value in living in a ‘kind’ and ‘empathetic’ society, whilst only a third (37%) currently believe they live in a city which is ‘kind’ or ‘empathic’.
Despite this imbalance, a majority of UK citizens (52%) recognise the emerging power that technology has to provide a solution to a lack of kindness in cities. This presents an opportunity for both companies and institutions to utilise the power of technology to bring about a more equitable future for all citizens.
Lenovo commissioned a study by surveying more than 5,000 city dwellers across five countries (United Kingdom, Brazil, Germany, Japan and United States), including 1060 Brits, to understand public perception of how city centres should operate post-pandemic. The findings reveal how traditional institutions, such as Government and policymakers, fall short of prioritising kindness, which leaves local neighbourhoods and communities to shoulder more responsibility to instil kindness and empathy.
Tech Already Working Its Magic
It may be that technology is already helping the world be a kinder place. In fact, 37% of UK residents believe that technology has already made people in their city kinder and more empathic, with this number rising to 42% and 48% amongst Gen Z and millennial respondents respectively.
That being said, it seems there is still a long way to go. Most respondents (56%) believe quality of life in their city is either getting worse or staying the same, with many acknowledging room for improvement in their general living standards and working conditions.
Additionally, city residents have reservations about how much the officials that represent them consider kindness when making decisions for the city. Less than one in five (17%) believe their policymakers strongly consider kindness and empathy.
“We believe the Kind City project will be the blueprint for mapping a kinder and better future,” said John Gordon, President of Industry Solutions at Lenovo. “Technology can and will make the future kinder, more inclusive, and more equitable. In cities, this means providing smarter technology for all—across socio-economic or cultural backgrounds—including both devices and solutions. The findings also demonstrate a real opening for the private sector to enable and empower citizens in a post-pandemic world. We will continue to ensure that Lenovo’s technology remains a catalyst for positive change”.
