FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION? THE CHALLENGE OF DIGITALIZATION AND ITS ENVIRONMENTAL AND ANTHROPOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES

The digitalization processes started in the Third Industrial Revolution have given way to a technological ecosystem characterized by connectivity, innovation, flexibility and automation. This new ecosystem, which some authors call the Fourth Industrial Revolution, has important consequences for the environment and employment. Consequently, the digital transformation may facilitate or limit the achievement of the goals set out in the Agenda 2030. This article analyzes in a descriptive way two effects of the Revolution 4.0. On one hand, the environmental consequences of digitalization. On other hand, the labor and anthropological consequences of the processes of flexibility and innovation that the new methodologies associated with digitalization implement. Finally, the description becomes critical in demonstrating that these processes not only transform the industry, but also have profound consequences on human character and identity.