Ielts Writing Task 2. Advan/Dis?

I forgot to log in to my account on another computer so I just posted this essay on the forum as an anonymous user, sorry if it causes inconvenience. Anyway, can I replace disadvantages with demerits?

The advantages of robots doing the basic serving functions in the entertainment, leisure, and retail sectors of the economy outweigh the disadvantages.

To what extent do you agree with this statement?

Ever since the inception of robot technologies, they have polarised public opinion. Proponents of this advance affirm that its merits are of greater importance compared to the drawbacks as the development is conducive to various domains and humans’ lives. Nevertheless, I strongly contend that this phenomenon is likely to bear more adverse consequences to humanity.

There is no denying that the adoption of robotics engineering permeates all aspects of life. First, it is an integral driving force behind the thriving economy of developed nations. To be more specific, as multitudinous goods are in growing demand, companies require a faster and more productive manufacturing system, which leads to the ubiquity of robots in factories. Besides, with the programmed system, this state-of-the-art technology can do labor-intensive tasks with rare accidents. Second, given mankind’s relentless pursuit of convenience and stress-free, robots can help people finish their daily tasks such as cleaning or cooking, thereby sparing humans more time for important and enjoyable activities. For instance, the emergence of robot cleaners or mobile autonomous vehicles has made lives more comfortable.

Nonetheless, I believe that these positives may pale in comparison with its negatives as mankind’s overdependence on this technology can make it counterproductive. First, the use of robots may jeopardize people’s job security. It is believed that technological advances can be an alternative to many jobs or professions as they are increasingly developed. Consequently, many workers are likely to give places to robotics technologies, including doctors or cleaners, which in fact, poses a threat to humanity. Furthermore, humans’ lifestyle could deteriorate tremendously if automated devices are overused at home. They can lead individuals to live a sedentary lifestyle, which is inadvertently detrimental.

In conclusion, although the emergence of robots is unquestionably beneficial to people on various levels, varying from prosperity to convenient life, I concur with the school of thought that says that the drawbacks may overshadow them.