Is E-Commerce Eroding Human Connection? RSS Leader Warns of Transactional Relationships

Hindustan Times

In an increasingly digital world, concerns are growing about the impact of market-driven lifestyles on the fabric of society. A recent statement by Suresh Bhaskar Rao Hosabale, a prominent leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has sparked a renewed debate on the potential downsides of e-commerce and the shift towards a transactional approach to relationships.

Hosabale’s remarks, delivered during a public address, highlighted a worrying trend: the reduction of human interactions to mere transactions. He specifically cited the rise of e-commerce as a prime example, arguing that it fosters a system where relationships, once built on trust, shared experiences, and mutual support, are now primarily defined by the exchange of goods and services.

The Rise of the Transactional Mindset

The core of Hosabale’s argument revolves around the idea that a market-based, government-oriented life—where economic efficiency and governmental control often take precedence—can inadvertently erode the foundations of a healthy society. The convenience and accessibility of e-commerce, while undeniably beneficial in many ways, can also contribute to a detachment from the human element of commerce. Instead of engaging with vendors, building rapport, or supporting local businesses, consumers are increasingly interacting with algorithms and automated systems.

This shift, Hosabale suggests, extends beyond the realm of shopping. It can seep into other areas of life, impacting family dynamics, friendships, and community bonds. When everything is viewed through the lens of a transaction, the intrinsic value of relationships—the emotional support, shared experiences, and genuine connection—can be diminished.

Beyond E-Commerce: A Broader Societal Shift

While e-commerce serves as a potent illustration, Hosabale's concerns are part of a wider discussion about the impact of globalization and consumerism on Philippine society. The relentless pursuit of economic growth and material possessions can lead to a prioritization of individual gain over collective well-being. This can manifest in various ways, from a decline in volunteerism to a weakening of traditional social structures.

Finding a Balance: Reclaiming Human Connection

Hosabale’s message isn’t a call to abandon e-commerce or reject progress. Rather, it’s a plea for a more mindful approach to technology and consumption. It’s a reminder that while efficiency and convenience are valuable, they shouldn’t come at the expense of human connection and social cohesion.

To counteract this trend, Hosabale likely advocates for a renewed emphasis on values such as community, empathy, and personal responsibility. Supporting local businesses, engaging in meaningful conversations, and prioritizing relationships over material possessions are all steps that can help reclaim the human element in a rapidly changing world. The challenge lies in finding a balance between leveraging the benefits of technology and preserving the essential qualities that make Philippine society strong and vibrant.

The conversation sparked by Hosabale's words is a vital one, particularly in a nation like the Philippines where strong family and community ties have historically been central to its identity. It’s a call to reflection, urging us to examine the trade-offs we make in the pursuit of a market-driven lifestyle and to actively cultivate relationships that transcend mere transactions.