So, clever humans with their opposing thumbs and large brains have managed to invent and harness all kinds of technology that enables them to do what exactly?
We have navigation electronics that tell us — most of the time we hope — precisely where we are in real time on land, sea, or in the air. Radar allows us to see well beyond what the naked eye can. When applied correctly, radar can prevent vessels from colliding with one another and help navigate along coasts and rivers with greater safety. ARPA takes collision avoidance to amazing levels of capability and sophistication. Computer-controlled engines monitor themselves with sensors (that never, ever fail!) that stand by tirelessly to alert us well in advance of serious trouble.
But there are limits to what technology and automation can do for us, even if we’re properly utilizing and maintaining it.
Technology won’t force you to stand a proper watch, deck or engine, and pay attention to the things that are the most important at any given moment (often a moving target). It can offer up a wealth of information, which may or may not be entirely true, but won’t necessarily be able to prioritize it for you in a way that is helpful in the heat of the moment. Technology can’t make you look out the window as often and for as long as you should, or compel the back-watch deckhand to diligently check around the engine room machinery for potential trouble at 0230 while the chief engineer is asleep.
Most importantly, technology can’t prevent you from misusing it, overrelying on it, or developing other bad habits while using it.
In the end, all the fancy technology in the world can’t and won’t save you from yourself. For that you need the amazing technology you were born with (your brain) coupled with as much knowledge as possible, good judgment (which must be taught), good habits, and the discipline to stick with them consistently despite many distractions.
Livelihoods, and lives, depend on it.
