In June, the MCC Budapest Summit on Technology and Society brought together leading experts, thinkers, and educators from Hungary and abroad to examine how digital innovation is reshaping modern life. Spanning three days—two in Budapest and one across MCC’s regional centers—the conference explored the societal effects of emerging technologies, with particular focus on education, family life, and cultural values.
In his opening address, Zoltán Szalai, Director General of MCC, emphasized how the digital age has revolutionized access to knowledge, shifting us “from bookshelves to instant information.” Still, he warned, our inner world remains the lens through which we experience reality—highlighting the need for psychological resilience in the face of constant change. Balázs Orbán, Chairman of MCC’s Board of Trustees, echoed this sentiment, calling for strategic foresight and responsible innovation. While technology can support learning and development, he noted, it also brings risks such as distraction, dependency, and social fragmentation if left unchecked.
Over the course of the summit, panel discussions addressed a wide range of issues, from artificial intelligence in education to the global reach of Big Tech. On the topic of educational technology, participants highlighted the importance of developing digital literacy but warned against placing novelty above substance. They emphasized that teachers, parents, and meaningful content must remain central to learning, especially in an era dominated by screens and algorithms.
A dedicated panel on technology’s effect on families revealed that while digital tools can foster communication, excessive use may hinder emotional development, particularly in children. Speakers called for greater awareness, clear boundaries, and stronger human presence in daily life. Other panels raised concerns about data privacy, mental health, and the ideological influence embedded in AI systems, urging society to take an active role in regulating these forces.
The discussion on children’s digital upbringing concluded that screen time and online interactions are not inherently harmful, but cannot substitute real-world experiences and community engagement. Emotional bonds, cultural grounding, and the guiding presence of adults remain essential for healthy development.
Across every theme, one message resonated clearly: technology must serve people, not replace them. It is a tool—powerful, but only as effective as the values and relationships that guide its use.
