Impact of digital technology as a reliable source of input for rational decision making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with suitable example.

Inputs through digital technology play an important role in the decision making. Despite being the most trusted source, there are several apprehensions regarding such decision making which cannot be ignored. 

Digital Technology: Reliable Source of Input?

Advantages:

1. Objective collection of inputs: E.g.: While filing a tax return, applications will be fed into the database and thus can be assessed objectively.

2. Transparency: E.g.: COVID19 Vaccination; from appointment to final delivery are digitally enabled.

3. Minimum Government, Maximum Governance: Monitoring and evaluation through PRAGATI (Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation) is also an example of rational decision making through technology.

Disadvantages:

1. Lack of Human Touch: Digital resources often lack Empathy, compassion and fairness thus decisions taken are based on mechanical rationality.

2. Technical glitches, errors and unverified information can lead to cascading effects and thus affect the whole chain of decision making. 

3. Algorithms often shape the information we are receiving and hence condition our decision-making abilities. 

4. Cyberattack: Inputs can be manipulated through hacking and intrusions. 

5. Due to digital divide, marginalised remain marginalised in decision making due to digital exclusion. It can be seen in cases of DBT, landless farmers, women and tribes. 

Technology must be used to complement human beings; it should not blindly replace human minds. A fine mixture of technological inputs and human observations must be used to come to a rational conclusion in decision making.