Introduction
With the advancement of technology, the world appears “smaller” than ever before. One click crosses continents, one phone call erases time differences, and artificial intelligence becomes an assistant to human thinking. Humanity now possesses the capabilities it once only dreamed of for millennia — but have these capabilities expanded our inner world as well, or have we started to lose touch with our souls amidst the flood of information?
This question is not only philosophical but also relevant from social, academic, public, and research perspectives. As the world shrinks technically, the question of whether the human soul is growing becomes key to understanding humanity’s spiritual evolution.
I. Social Perspective: Virtual closeness, real distance
In the past, people waited weeks to send letters over long distances. Now, we can look into someone’s eyes through a video call in seconds. Yet this closeness often brings a paradoxical coldness in real-life communication.
On social media, people constantly share moments from their lives, but emotional connection, empathy, and sincere conversations are declining. Dialogues become emojis, emotions turn into "likes." This can hinder inner development. Deep emotional understanding, attentive listening, and meaningful relationships are losing their value.
Still, many seek self-awareness even in this shallow world. Behind social media screens, within the silences between posts, many are trying to journey inward.
II. Academic Perspective: Information abundance, wisdom scarcity
The 21st century is the age of information. The amount of data people consume daily exceeds what a person in the Middle Ages could access in a lifetime. Yet, the ability to filter, understand, and reflect on this information is weakening.
The difference between knowledge and information is being forgotten. Though students have access to thousands of sources, their ability to think critically, question, and analyze is diminishing. And it is through these abilities that inner growth happens.
Research shows that true development comes not from gathering data, but from processing and contemplating it. As the world becomes smaller, developing reflection, critical thinking, and philosophy becomes even more essential for internal growth.
III. Societal Perspective: Global citizenship and the loss of identity
Globalization has turned people into “global citizens.” One can now attend an art exhibit in Paris, join a live event in Tokyo, and listen to a lecture by a professor in New York — all in the same day. This broadens perspectives.
But behind this opportunity lies the danger of cultural uniformity. Values, languages, and identities risk being eroded by global models. True inner growth is not possible without understanding one’s own roots, culture, and self.
A person is like a tree — it cannot grow without roots. Therefore, even as the world shrinks, we must protect our national identity, return to our origins, and respect the identities of others.
IV. Research Perspective: Limits of human potential
Modern neuroscience and psychology prove that the human brain has endless potential. Through meditation, focused thinking, creative writing, art, and music, we can expand our inner universe.
Studies show that excessive technology use — especially social media — weakens the brain’s empathy centers. Yet, when used correctly, technology can open doors to new worlds and lead to deeper internal richness.
Inner growth is no longer just a spiritual idea — it's supported by science through mental exercises, daily reflection techniques, and emotional intelligence training. So yes, the world is shrinking, but it may also be giving us a new chance to turn inward.
V. A Philosophical Question: Who are we, and where are we going?
Inner growth happens not just through knowledge, but through understanding. Who am I? Where did I come from? Where am I going? A person asking these questions is always growing inside. Technology won’t give the answers — but it can be a faithful companion along the journey.
If the external world is now easier to know, what about our inner world? If it remains foreign to us, then this is not growth, but collapse.
Conclusion: Becoming a greater person in a smaller world
The world grows “smaller” with each passing day — borders disappear, languages are translated automatically, and knowledge is at our fingertips. But does this shrinking of the world allow the soul to grow?
The answer is simple: inner growth depends on the individual. If one uses this smaller world only for surface-level experiences, then the inner world shrinks. But if they go deeper, reflect, understand, and shape their character — then even in a small world, a universe will grow inside them.
Let us end with this question:
The world is shrinking, yes. But are you growing within it?