The Industrial Society says it will examine whether technology causes social alienation and stress at work.
It also hopes its three-year survey will show whether technology drives change or just reflects it.
Chief executive Will Hutton says the research will analyse "the critical social and economic question of the 21st century".
The group says its initial research shows people are more receptive to new gadgetry than many technophobes argue.
In a poll to launch the investigation it found the internet, mobile phones and e-mail seem to help social interaction by increasing the number of friends people have.
The non-profit group - which comprises figures from academia, the public sector and business - has the backing of some big names in the technology field.
Microsoft managing director Neil Holloway hopes the survey will bring us closer to a "truly digital inclusive society".
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