A Technological Epiphany

In the not so distant past, my relationship with technology was about as innocent as the sound of the Nintendo DS opening jingle. The excitement of playing Pokémon on a handheld console was my initiation into the digital realm. Little did I know that those early days of gaming were setting the stage for a complex dance with technology that would shape my life in profound and unexpected ways.

The Wii, with its unique ability to input the user's own motion into controllers, brought a new dimension to my relationship with technology. The sheer joy of swinging a virtual tennis racket or bowling a perfect strike was a new form of gaming. But more importantly, it was an era when technology was a source of bonding and shared laughter. I still recall growing up and going over to my friends house to play MarioKart in my friends basement, sharing laughs and forming memories. My first experience playing online Minecraft marked a turning point. As I navigated a pixelated world exploring endless possibilities, I glimpsed the power of online connectivity. Multiplayer gaming introduced to me the idea that friendships could transcend geographical boundaries. It was an era of genuine connection, a stark contrast to the complexities that would unfold with the rise of social media. 

Fast forward to today, and my opinion with technology has evolved into a complex relationship. While social media platforms like Instagram have become integral parts of my daily routine, I find myself grappling with the idea of how much is too much? The screen time feature on my iPhone has significantly helped me, reminding me of the delicate balance needed in my relationship with technology. It's not just about spending the appropriate amount of time but it's about being mindful of the quality of that time. I've come to recognize that the dopamine rush from infinite scrolling, while it offers momentary pleasure, it potentially poisons our abilities to make genuine human connections.

Cyberbullying, revenge porn, and the pervasive culture of ghosting have cast shadows on the landscape of online interaction. The youth suicide rates highlighted in the PBS article serve as a reminder of the darker aspects of our technologically saturated world. It forces me to question whether the advantages that come with technology are worth the toll they might be taking on our collective well-being. The utopian vision of a globally connected society might lead to a dystopian reality where the lines between the virtual and the real are blurred. 

Reflecting on my own online footprint, if a prospective employer were to embark on the digital detective work of googling me, what would they discover? The Pokémon battles and Wii victories have been replaced by Instagram stories and Twitter threads. The question then becomes: how does this digital trail shape the perception of who I am? The evolution of my relationship with technology is not just my own personal journey but something that is shared. Comments, likes, conversations are all embedded into my digital presence. Technology's impact on my life is a constant source of reflection. Since this class, I think about it all the time. On one hand, the ability to set up a blog and potentially reach millions is a testament to the democratization of information. On the other hand, the proliferation of misinformation and the erosion of privacy paint a less optimistic picture.

I’ve come to reflect on the entirety of human experience after this class. Technology is a thread intricately woven into the fabric of our lives. The key lies in navigating this relationship with mindfulness. As a college student who has witnessed the evolution of technology from handheld consoles to social media platforms, I am acutely aware of the need for balance. We live in a world now where online footprints can influence real-world opportunities. This means the responsibility falls on us to shape a healthy relationship with technology. It's not about demonizing or deifying the digital realm but acknowledging its complexities and approaching it with a mindful awareness of its impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. 

Reflection on a Peers Presentation

Tanner Ripley's presentation was extremely real. From the mountains of Colorado, he grew up in a rural town of Steamboat Springs. It was there where he experienced much less technology than most. I remember him saying he got a flip phone towards the end of middle school and he was raised on a ranch where he was doing stuff all the time as he grew up. It kept him off his phone as much and there wasn’t much service. He was out and about doing numerous things on the ranch. Being out in a rural town there’s a lot of simple living. There are so many amazing, nourishing outdoor things one can do in Colorado. Everywhere you go it’s different. From skiing at the back bowls of aspen to fishing for trout, there are endless activities to do in the state of Colorado. Tanner talks about all those things that were a formative part of his upbringing.

I truly enjoyed his presentation. When Tanner got a smartphone it was in high school. I recall getting my iPhone when I was 12 (6th grade). Tanner prompted us to think about how much the world has changed in the past 10-20 years due to technology. It is simply unbelievable. Tanner spoke about how technology can alter the way relationship dynamics transpire. He explained how a partner can have too much control texting and monitoring where their partner is, checking locations, etc. This is a topic I feel needs to be touched on more, as I personally know people who have been victims of cyber relationship abuse. I appreciated hearing his points in his presentation, the rawness, and him providing his upbringing in detail.

"AI is unstoppable!" Ehh... There's still plenty of work ahead

AI is this newfangled tech powerhouse that is throwing society a curveball. It's got unimaginable power, but oversight? Barely there. We're all about tech making life a breeze, but AI tags along with its own set of headaches. We dug into a Frontlines AI documentary in class which provided me with a lot of insight into the ever-evolving world of AI. The documentary began with a 2016 showdown in South Korea, pitting the Chinese go game champ against Google's AI, Alpha Go. China was cocky, but Alpha Go pulled a move that left jaws on the floor. The AI bagged four games, the champ got just one. Game on, AI vs. human smarts. 

There has been significant talk about AI stealing jobs. But AI isn't just stealing jobs, it's messing with society as a whole. Robots replacing humans in the job market has implications: how will a Robot pay taxes? They don’t pay taxes or give back like humans which means productivity's up but pay's down. I don’t think we should blame offshoring. Instead, its automation punching the middle class in the gut. One example of this is in D.C where cashiers are being replaced by automatic self checkout systems. Additionally, individuals with math and science degrees are put at an automatic advantage compared to those who are not.

But there are more money issues with AI that might be separating the extremes with regards to rich vs. poor. The rich get richer with AI. Google was a dud until they peeked at how users clicked. While it was secret until 2004, they revealed a 3,590% revenue boost from 2000 to 2004. Behavioral prediction is their gold mine, shaping actions like puppet masters. Facebook's in on it too, swaying elections by nudging folks to vote a certain way. Although that's not all, the Government is in on it too: China's got street cameras, Big Brother style, tracking citizens' every move. In a rebellious spot, they're using AI to spot supposed terrorists. Now this is cool! Privacy is certainly taking a big hit. Facebook's has lost billions of dollars for privacy breaches and Zuckerberg's speeches haven't sparked real change. Some tech wizards are bailing on fakebook, fearing the power they've unleashed. Documentaries like The Social Dilemma shout about privacy perils, but we're far from a fix. I think there's still plenty of work ahead.

Confirmation Bias

 Confirmation bias, the tendency to favor information that confirms our existing beliefs, has far-reaching implications that extend beyond a mere definition. Understanding these implications is crucial for navigating our world as it becomes more and more saturated with information, particularly for someone interested in media law and literacy.

One of the positive aspects of confirmation bias is its role in creating a sense of identity and belonging. When individuals surround themselves with like-minded people and information that reinforces their views, it can foster a sense of community and shared values. This can be beneficial for social movements and advocacy, allowing groups to mobilize effectively around common causes. However, the dark side of confirmation bias becomes apparent when it leads to the rejection or dismissal of information that challenges our preconceived notions. This can result in a closed-minded society. Differing opinions are not considered and it results in hindering intellectual growth and innovation. In the context of media law and literacy, confirmation bias can contribute to the spread of misinformation, as individuals are more likely to accept and share information that aligns with their existing beliefs, without critically evaluating its accuracy. On a societal level, confirmation bias can lead to polarization, as people become more entrenched in their beliefs and less willing to engage in constructive dialogue with those who hold opposing views. In media law, this polarization can manifest in the form of biased reporting, where news outlets cater to the preferences of their target audience, reinforcing existing biases.

The impact of confirmation bias is definitely different across different segments of society. Socioeconomic factors, such as wealth and education, can influence the extent to which individuals are exposed to diverse perspectives. The wealthy may have greater access to a variety of information sources, potentially mitigating the effects of confirmation bias. Conversely, those with limited resources may be more susceptible to the information available within their immediate social circles.Age can also play a role, with younger generations often being more exposed to a diverse range of viewpoints through digital media. However, this exposure does not necessarily translate into a reduction in confirmation bias, as individuals may still selectively engage with information that aligns with their beliefs. It’s important that we begin addressing the challenges posed by confirmation bias. I believe it requires an understanding of how different age groups consume and interpret information, and crafting regulations that promote media literacy across generations. Gender and sexual orientation can further shape the impact of confirmation bias. For instance, individuals belonging to marginalized groups may seek out information that validates their experiences and perspectives, creating a sense of empowerment. However, this can also lead to the dismissal of alternative viewpoints, hindering dialogue between different communities. 

On a personal level, awareness of confirmation bias is crucial for anyone interested in media law and literacy. Acknowledging our own predispositions and actively seeking out diverse perspectives can help mitigate the negative effects of confirmation bias. It is essential to engage critically with information, fact-check sources, and be open to reconsidering our beliefs in the face of new evidence. For families and friends, open communication about the potential pitfalls of confirmation bias is key. Encouraging each other to explore different viewpoints and engaging in respectful discussions can contribute to a more informed and tolerant social circle. In media law, promoting transparency and accountability in reporting can also be a shared responsibility within these interpersonal networks.

By understanding the implications of confirmation bias and working towards a more informed society, individuals within this generation can contribute to a media environment that serves the public interest and promotes a meaningful exchange of ideas.

Analyzing the Diffusion of Innovations

The rapid evolution of communication technologies has marked the 21st century, with innovations such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms transforming the way we connect and share information. Applying Rogers' Diffusion of Innovations theory to these platforms allows us to understand their adoption patterns, the motivations behind early and late adoption, and the potential downsides and upsides that are associated with social media.

It’s important to start out by understanding the diffusion of innovations. Rogers' theory is quite fascinating. It identifies five adopter categories: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards. Innovators and early adopters are generally the first to embrace new technologies while the majority follows suit over time. Laggards on the other hand, are hesitant to adopt innovations, even after the technology or specific innovation has become accepted by the majority of the population. Knowing this, let's consider the diffusion of social media platforms, such as Facebook/Twitter/Instagram, through the lens of Roger’s theory. 

Innovators in the realm of social media were tech enthusiasts and early internet users who saw the potential for connecting and sharing online. Early adopters, often opinion leaders within their social circles, quickly recognized the benefits of these platforms for communication, self-expression, networking, and connecting with people across the globe. The early majority joined as social media gained popularity and became more user-friendly, perceiving it as a norm rather than an innovation. Late majority individuals joined as a response to social pressure or when the technology became almost ubiquitous. Laggards might resist social media due to concerns about privacy, security, or simply being uncomfortable with the digital landscape.

The Laggards have reason to doubt social media as there are certainly downsides. Social media platforms have faced criticism for mishandling user data, leading to privacy concerns and potential misuse. There is also a rise of cyberbullying, online harassment, and the impact on mental health are significant downsides. Additionally constant exposure to information on social media may lead to information overload and decreased attention spans. Another rising concern is overexposure to dopamine and the subsequent shortening of attention spans. People are becoming addicted to social media and their phones. I, for instance, limit my use of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or any other social media platform. This choice is rooted in concerns about the potential negative impact on mental health, and a desire for a more intentional use of time. While these platforms offer connectivity, information sharing, and networking opportunities, the potential downsides have led me to weigh the cost-benefit analysis in favor of not participating. That is not to say that there are no benefits to social media. Social media facilitates global connections, networking, and collaboration, fostering opportunities for personal and professional growth. Instantaneous information sharing allows for real-time updates on global events and trends. Analyzing the diffusion of social media through the lens of Rogers' Diffusion of Innovations theory provides insights into the diverse motivations behind adoption. 

Reflecting on Dissent

In reflecting on the role of dissent, particularly during times of war, and the protection of the First Amendment, it's essential to consider historical contexts. The Progressive Era was ignited by the fire of World War I. After this, we saw an antiwar sentiment. Those who opposed America's involvement faced persecution, with many ending up in jail merely for expressing their opinions. Now, fast forward to the present. The United States is engaged in military operations across the globe. Websites like ANTIWAR.COM and The American Conservative reveals strong antiwar voices that often find little appearance in mainstream news. I believe that the absence of these perspectives in mainstream media prompts critical examination. After delving into ANTIWAR.COM I noticed the writers who raised questions, offer alternative viewpoints, and, in doing so, go against the narratives presented by the mainstream media. The same was evident on The American Conservative. This site reinforced the idea that antiwar voices are often controversial, and that the topic itself is chaotic.

It's interesting to think about the silence of these perspectives in mainstream news. In my eyes, it raises the question of why must one seek out alternative sources to encounter strong antiwar voices? The answer is definitely complex. I think it's tied to various factors, including who owns the media, political affiliations, as well as the narrative that is being shaped by those in power. Mainstream media may be influenced by corporate interests and the desire to present an image of national strength. The marginalization of antiwar voices in mainstream media suggests a broader challenge to the diversity of opinions. In a society where dissent is a cornerstone of democratic principles, the First Amendment serves as a protector of free speech and a tool against the suppression of viewpoints that goes against the mainstream ideas.

The need to actively seek out alternative perspectives on websites like ANTIWAR.COM and The American Conservative is a larger message about the importance of diverse opinions. As citizens, I feel it is our responsibility to engage with diverse viewpoints. We need to recognize the inherent value of dissent in shaping a more informed society.

EOTO: VR

In the evolving world of technology, I was introduced to VR gaming by my friend Cole. Picture this: a sleek headset with goggles, futuristic sensors, two hand joysticks. Putting on the headset and taking hold of the joysticks took me on a journey into a digital realm that felt straight out of the movie. Jackson has always been my tech guru, but this was by far the coolest thing he's ever shown me. At the beginning of the school year, he took me on a ride that transformed gaming into a truly unique experience.  As Jackson walked me through the setup, I could feel myself getting excited. Once that headset was on, I was instantly transported from Jackson's living room to beautiful virtual landscapes, and I was hooked.

Virtual Reality traces its roots to the 1960s, with Morton Heilig's Sensorama as an early concept. Ivan Sutherland and his student Jaron Lanier pioneered the first head-mounted displays in the '60s and '80s, respectively. The term "virtual reality" was coined by Lanier. In the '90s, VR faced setbacks, but Palmer Luckey came up with the Oculus Rift in 2012 and the setbacks diminished. Today, VR comes in various forms, from tethered headsets for high-end experiences to standalone devices and mobile VR for accessibility, transforming how we experience digital worlds.

Every move I made in Jackson's Oculus Rift felt tangible. Using his VR set was fun but Jackson also showed me its educational potential. He told me about VR applications where you could tour historical places or dissect biological structures. I learned that VR wasn't just a game-changer for videogames; it was a transformative technology that could be used for both entertainment and learning. As I reluctantly peeled off the headset. Jackson's enthusiasm for his Oculus Rift opened my eyes to the intellectual depth and possibilities of VR.