Digital Revolution

Dr. Seyed Hamidreza Ghorashi – Editor-in-Chief

The Industrial Revolution created a profound transformation in the world and guided traditional life toward improved quality. By studying the course of modernization, we find that the First Industrial Revolution began with the emergence of mechanical and analog electronic technology, which was later transformed, giving rise to the Second Industrial Revolution.

With the transition to digital technology, the Third Industrial Revolution emerged at the end of the 20th century (around 1980). This technology rapidly penetrated every aspect of human life, influencing communication, economics, commerce, politics, culture, and even the military.

To understand this subject, it is useful to review some key statistics:

• In 1995, the Internet became widespread.

• By 1999, almost all countries had Internet access.

• In 2005, one billion people were online.

• By the end of 2005, three billion people were using mobile phones.

• In 2010, two billion people were active on the Internet and social networks.

• In 2012, Facebook alone had one billion active users.

The discussion of the Fourth Industrial Revolution—driven by digital transformation and the evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) from a learning machine to a generative and productive force—has become more prominent since 2023.

Large organizations and corporations must redefine their business strategies and information technology structures to prepare for the digital transformation era. The AI Revolution, which began in 2024, is expected to play a central role in human life within the next three years. However, it is essential to develop laws, regulations, and cultural awareness to minimize the potential risks before they occur.

Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft, has described AI as a revolutionary technology that will accelerate the rate of scientific discoveries and human progress over the next two years.

In education, for example, systems like Mathia and Khannigo should be localized and used to improve learning processes. Among the remarkable impacts of the Fourth Industrial Revolution powered by AI is driverless transportation, which will bring both advantages and challenges.

Overall, AI can enhance service delivery, optimize resource utilization, and provide clearer business insights. Yet, it may also eliminate repetitive, low-skill, and data-processing jobs. The solution lies in training and developing skilled professionals to fill the emerging gaps in the workforce.

Positive effects of this phenomenon include stronger global connections, easier communication, and broader information access. However, negative consequences—such as information overload, online predators, the decline of the music industry, social isolation, and media saturation—must also be addressed.

Understanding Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to a branch of computer science focused on designing systems capable of performing tasks that require human-like intelligence, such as perception, reasoning, learning, and problem-solving. These systems rely on complex algorithms and mathematical models to process data and make strategic decisions.

One of AI’s most widely used areas is Machine Learning, which enables computers to recognize patterns and predict outcomes without explicit programming. Other major fields include Deep Neural Networks, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Big Data.

AI has not only led to the development of new technologies but has also profoundly transformed industries and human life.

• In Healthcare: AI assists doctors in diagnosing diseases more accurately. Machine learning identifies hidden patterns in medical data, enabling early disease detection and prevention. Hospitals also benefit from smart robots and AI systems in management and patient care.

• In Manufacturing: AI-driven robots can automate quality inspection, assembly, and packaging, resulting in faster production, fewer human errors, and greater precision. Predictive AI tools also improve inventory management and cost efficiency.

• In Finance: AI plays a key role in analyzing large data sets and predicting market trends. It helps financial institutions with risk management, investment planning, and fraud detection, ensuring greater security and transparency.

• In Agriculture: AI uses soil, crop, and weather data to help farmers make better decisions and improve productivity. Drones and agricultural robots enhance harvesting and crop monitoring with higher speed and accuracy.

• In Transportation: AI optimizes traffic management and supports autonomous driving systems, reducing congestion, fuel consumption, and pollution. These smart systems can forecast optimal routes and prevent accidents.

Despite these advances, AI cannot fully replace certain professions that depend on creativity, emotional intelligence, and human judgment—such as artists, psychologists, consultants, and healthcare providers.

Therefore, it is predicted that AI, with its vast capabilities, will bring significant transformation to modern life and improve overall human well-being. This special issue aims to explore the various dimensions and implications of this emerging technology.