The tragic story of Sewell Setzer III serves as a stark reminder of the dual-edged nature of technology. The internet and AI can empower, educate, and connect us in unprecedented ways, but without guidance, they can lead to harmful consequences. Setzer’s heartbreaking experience with an AI chatbot underscores the urgent need for awareness, oversight, and discipline in how we engage with digital platforms. His mother’s warning—“there are no guardrails”—is a wake-up call to parents, educators, and technology creators alike.
This incident highlights how the lack of structure and boundaries in the digital world can make young people especially vulnerable. AI platforms, like Character.AI, can simulate intimacy and connection but lack the moral compass to guide users safely. The absence of proper safety measures and the addictive nature of these tools can lead to isolation, unhealthy dependence, and even self-harm. These risks emphasize the importance of teaching children and teens how to approach technology responsibly and critically. This is where lessons from Taekwondo become invaluable.
In Taekwondo, practitioners are not just trained in physical techniques but are instilled with values of discipline, respect, and self-control. These principles extend far beyond the dojang (training hall). A student learns to maintain balance—not just in physical stances but also in their emotions and decision-making. The structured environment of Taekwondo fosters accountability, helping students navigate challenges with resilience and mindfulness. If applied to technology use, these same principles could empower young individuals to approach the internet with caution, set boundaries, and resist unhealthy patterns of behavior.
Just as a Taekwondo practitioner blocks and counters an opponent’s attack, we must teach young people to recognize and guard against the negative aspects of technology. The internet is a powerful tool, but without discipline and guidance, it can harm more than it helps. Parents, like coaches in martial arts, play a pivotal role in setting these boundaries and encouraging open communication. By incorporating the values of Taekwondo into how we approach modern challenges, we can help ensure that technology serves as a bridge to growth, not a barrier to well-being.
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