#12: Final Post

Technology and social media play a significant role in my daily life, and I can see how they impact today’s society. While there are various benefits, I have discovered that they create issues that can impact my generation.

As a teenager, I often feel that I need to be on social media and have an online following. Especially going into high school, I was pressured by friends to add social media platforms, such as Instagram and Snapchat onto my phone. While I do have those apps downloaded, I do not post much and try my best to limit my usage. Additionally, I have refrained from getting TikTok on my phone.

I try to restrict my social media usage because I often find myself “doom scrolling” or comparing myself to others. While some content provides entertainment and makes me laugh, other times I find myself wasting time or checking likes and comments. By not posting and limiting my screen time, I find myself having more time for things I want to do and hanging out with my friends. Another strategy I use is I have made the switch to watching television shows instead of scrolling through videos. I find that this surprisingly cuts down on my screen time because I am able to structure myself with episode times.

However, I do enjoy using social media overall, similarly to many people my age. It keeps people connected with their friends and family, as well as updated on current news. Many teenagers utilize social media platforms as a way to express themselves and be entertained. Additionally, content creators and influencers have transformed the way we view technology because they are able to make a living off of social media. This encourages people to keep posting content, which allows for unlimited amounts of videos to keep people engaged. To add, social media apps are also used as a tool to stay informed on political topics and share your views about the world.

Although there are many positives, the negative consequences can be harmful to young people. For example, social media addiction is a growing problem with reports indicating the average teen spends around nine hours on social media each day. The apps are designed with algorithms and AI to track your data and calculate your likes to curate your online feed. As a result, this causes people to get stuck scrolling for hours on end. In addition, social media causes your brain to release dopamine, making you happy while using these programs. In reality, people may be wasting their time online, instead of making memories and having new experiences.

Another harmful aspect of social media is the mental health impacts. Many teens are constantly comparing themselves to people online which can cause people to have serious FOMO and body dysmorphia. In the worst cases, reports demonstrate young people suffering from mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. In addition, social media can be misused in situations like revenge porn. This refers to the non-consensual sharing of explicit photos or images. A person does this to destroy another’s reputation and publicly embarrass them. As a result, this could lead to bad mental health issues and even suicide.

Social media and technology are a big part of everyday life, but they come with real risks. Being more aware of how we use them can help us stay balanced and protect our mental health and privacy.

#11: EOTO Reaction

 

One presentation I found interesting was learning about the illusory truth effect. It is the human tendency to believe a claim or a piece of information to be true after being exposed to it multiple times. Essentially, the more we hear something, the more likely we are to believe it.

After doing my own research, I learned that there are multiple psychological studies that prove this effect. The first was conducted in 1977 and demonstrates how the participants' confidence in the validity of a statement rose as it was repeated. Similarly, the illusory truth effect creates myths that, after a certain amount of exposure, people believe are true. An example of this is the belief that we only use ten percent of our brains. This illustrates how the illusory truth effect can be impactful on society’s perception of information.

On one hand, the illusory truth effect can have positive outcomes. For example, the spread of factual information can cause people to retain information and be more educated on a certain subject. Additionally, this effect is utilized in marketing and branding to help build recognition and gain attention from potential customers.

Although there are pros, when this strategy is used by bad actors it can have harmful influences. This is seen today in social media, where misinformation is constantly spread to a wide audience. Often, these slogans or taglines are used to sway public opinion toward a certain political belief or bias. In addition, this propaganda can encourage people to make decisions on bad information, such as voting for a candidate. 

Another factor I found that surprised me was how to correct this misinformation. Psychology Today describes it as a paradox because to correct the lie involves repeating the falsehood. As a result, this statement may be solidified and validated even further for some.

To avoid falling for the illusory truth effect, people need to take precautions. Just like protecting your house, I believe that people need to guard their values from these bad actors trying to sway your opinions. Therefore, it is crucial that people fact-check their information and be aware of how the illusory truth effect can impact them.

#10: Living in the Age of AI

 

After watching the In the Age of AI video, I learned that AI that people are still learning and understanding how it affects their lives. Britannica defines artificial intelligence as “the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings.” One example of AI’s potential is from AlphaGo. This AI system shocked the world when it beat Lee Sedol, the world champion of the ancient Chinese game, Go. This competition demonstrates the capabilities of AI because AlphaGo was able to create new game strategies that people had not previously thought of.

With the possibilities of AI, there are numerous benefits. For instance, AI is able to automate certain tasks which can increase productivity in the workplace. Companies and business owners are able to increase profits and become more efficient because AI can instantaneously analyze data. In addition, companies can be less focused on mundane tasks and utilize their employees for more complex assignments. 

On the other hand, the implementation of artificial intelligence in the workplace brings up an ethical dilemma. In the Age of AI video, it discusses how people are losing their jobs and being replaced by robots, especially women, as they are overrepresented in retail and clerical work. The American dream of working hard and improving one’s situation is becoming difficult as the wealth disparity in the country continues to grow.

Another aspect of AI is its role in surveillance capitalism. This process refers to when companies monetize the data captured from using online platforms. The algorithm on apps such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, tracks user’s likes, screen time, and purchases to curate your online feed. However, many people are unaware of how AI utilizes this information and where it goes. 

Additionally, the impact of this can be harmful to democracy. This data is used to campaign to specific online users and can sway public opinions, as seen in the Facebook 2010 election scandal. In this case, Facebook sold 87 millions of its users’ data to a political advertising company without the consent of those people. This scandal highlights how people need to be aware and take action to protect their privacy from AI and social media companies.

Overall, the video in the Age of AI illustrates the dangers as well as technological potential of AI and raises concerns about how it should be used in the future. 

In the Age of AI Video:

#9: EOTO Media Consolidation

Media consolidation is the process where a few large companies or corporations gain control and acquire a significant portion over media outlets. This includes everything from television networks, radio stations, and online platforms. Media consolidation limits diverse perspectives by dominating the news to be owned by a few corporations. 

The history of media consolidation dates back to the 1930s. The Federal Communications Commission was established in 1934 to preserve media diversity. For years, the FCC put in place regulations to prevent one corporation from owning too many television stations, newspapers, etc.

However, during the Reagan administration, FCC Chairman Mark Fowler began to push a deregulatory view​. This shift in perspective encouraged the creation of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. It raised the caps on the number of stations or papers a corporation could own. In addition, it allowed a corporation to reach of higher percentage of the national audience.

The result of this was a massive deregulation that encouraged media corporations to take control over smaller platforms. In 1983, 90% of media outlets were controlled by around 50 companies. In 2023, they are controlled by what is known as the “Big Six”. These include Comcast, Disney, AT&T, Paramount, Sony and Fox. 

The positives of media consolidation are increased productivity and efficiency. These large news outlets can spread information quickly across multiple platforms, reaching a wider audience. In addition, this situation might decrease costs, in comparison to a local source. However, these benefits are good in theory, without taking into account business corruption. 

On the other hand, the negatives of media consolidation impact society on a large scale. When fewer voices control the media, it limits diverse perspectives. In addition, it may limit the public access to information, if corporations gatekeep or hide certain information or events. Local news or independent journalists often struggle against the competition, resulting in one narrative being pushed. 

Additionally, another significant issue is bias. Large corporations are often loyal to specific political affiliations and personal interests. This may cause the publicized information to be skewed to push one viewpoint. In addition, this leads to distrust in the media. According to a 2023 Gallup poll, only about 20 percent of Americans have trust in their news and television. With this decrease in trust, people may turn to extremist or unreliable sources. Overall, this may be dangerous to the public and increase polarization. 

The real-world influence of media consolidation will affect people in society differently. While the wealthy may profit for these business endeavors, the poor will not always have the resources to find trustworthy platforms. This may result in more disparities between economic classes. In addition, marginalized voices will be hurt and underrepresented in mainstream media. To conclude, media consolidation may wedge a father gap between the majority and minorities. 

The issue of media consolidation personally affects me and my generation. In today’s world, people of all ages, but especially young people gather their information from social media and online networks. We depend on mainstream media for entertainment, as well as to form social, economic, and political beliefs. However, with the rise of media consolidation it becomes difficult to trust and truly understand what is happening in the world.

In addition, I believe that media consolidation is a threat to democracy. When the ownership of mainstream media platforms is controlled by a few powerful people, they have control over influencing the public’s opinions and actions. 

To fight back against these problems, we need to encourage our government to increase regulations on media corporations. Another way to combat these corporations is to support local and independent journalism and news sources.  Also, people need to stay educated and aware of how media consolidation impacts them. I advise that everyone be more cautious of what news they trust and find the background on their sources.

With the increase of our dependence on media, people need to stay informed on how media consolidation influences our world. 

#8: Diffusion of Innovations

What makes some technologies and cultural trends become essential parts of everyday life? The process of spreading innovation is answered by sociologist Everett Rogers. He called his theory Diffusion of Innovations, established in 1962. Rogers defined innovation as "an idea, practice, or object that is perceived as new by an individual or other unit of adoption".

His theory looks at how various innovations are adopted into society. The theory divides the population into different groups, such as innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority and laggards. This provides a timeline for how these products, ideals, and behaviors are slowly implemented into society. 

In my case, I researched how remote work and platforms like Zoom have become an integral aspect of our world. First, I would suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic sparked the catalyst for the adoption of working from home. While before March 2020, remote work was often seen as a perk. It was earned because it relies on flexibility and trust between the employer and employee. Many companies did not offer this type of job because they feared productivity and collaboration would suffer.

However, the pandemic created a world were working from home was the “new normal”. Overnight offices and school closed, and people quarantined for their safety. Suddenly, it seemed like adults and children alike were utilizing Zoom and online conference services. 

Rogers describes five characteristics that are elements to adopting an innovation, as well as remote work. These include compatibility, trialability, relative advantage, observability and complexity. Working from home was extremely compatible because it fit people's new need for social distancing. It also fit trialability and complexity because Zoom’s free version allowed for the platform to be accessible to all. Zoom encouraged people to use the service for work conferences and socialization. Lastly, the benefits of the products were noticeable because everyone was using it.

The impacts of working from home allowed for it to be adopted into everyday life. As the world began to recover from the pandemic, more companies embraced hybrid and remote models. Flexibility is becoming a key-component and led to the re-thinking of a work-life balance. In addition, the measures of success in the workplace are transitioning from going to meetings and visibility. Instead, outcomes and results are being judged, encouraging quality work.

However, the cultural shift to remote work also has negative consequences. Issues of isolation may increase, and collaboration may suffer when using Zoom. Nevertheless, remote work demonstrates how innovation diffuses through society and reshapes how we live. 

#7: The Progressive Era

After exploring Antiwar.com, I could recognize the differences between this website and mainstream news outlets. It is evident that this source has strong beliefs and reports stories with a contrasting perspective. While most popular news platforms are aligned with the ideals of the Republican or Democratic party, this website does not affiliate with a political party.

Although all these reports were published on various sites, they all share a similar view on anti-war and condemn both parties in their intervention in foreign affairs. For example, the article titled “Rubio: US To Decide Within Days If Ukraine Peace Is Possible” by Kyle Anzalone demonstrates how both political parties are criticized for the overall message. In his article, he initially states President Trump’s claim to end the war in Ukraine. However, he highlights how this campaign promise is not being prioritized. Additionally, Anzalone seeks to put pressure on both parties to reduce our government’s intervention in this war.

This article reveals how the Antiwar website is nonpartisan and why it is less popular. In modern media, many news sources are politically affiliated to a political party or even stay neutral. Conversely, this website is more obscure because it finds flaws in both political parties to encourage action for their anti-war cause. This website highlights how mainstream media is often biased to stay loyal to their political party and how diverse perspectives are often underrepresented.

In addition, I looked at The American Conservative website and noticed the similarities between the two platforms. Nevertheless, there were striking differences between the two sources on what they valued. From my research, I believed the Antiwar website to be more focused on diplomacy and efforts to be peaceful with foreign nations. On the other hand, the American Conservative displayed stories on domestic issues.

Overall, both news outlets were critical of mainstream media and the overall actions by the U.S. government to intervene in foreign conflicts.  For example, there was an image displayed on the website that caught my attention because of its satirical way of showing their message. This image embodies how both news sources are different from mainstream press.

This political cartoon shows a loudspeaker labeled ‘Alternative Media’ drowning out other mainstream news outlets. In addition, each news outlet is illustrated as an elephant or donkey, representing how these sources have skewed viewpoints to match the Republican or Democratic party. This image highlights how powerful and important it truly is to listen to independent sources and be cautious of where you gather information. 

News platforms like Antiwar and The American Conservative are essential in providing an antiwar perspective that is often overlooked in today's press. I appreciate how these sources demonstrate no party affiliations, which allows them to challenge the actions of both parties. These opinions are necessary and crucial during a time when so much of the mainstream media is biased toward one viewpoint; these sources provide perspectives that challenge authority.

#6: EOTO Reaction

After listening to all the presentations, I was most interested in the presentation on the history of video games. I learned that the term “video game” has evolved over time. Originally, it was a technical term that describes the transmission of video signals to a display. However, now it refers to an electronic game played on a video display. 

The advancements of technology, including electronic computers, laid the foundation for video games. The development of basic programs and computing systems allowed for simulations and interactive games to be created later.

Tennis for Two Display

The first video game was invented by physicist William Higinbotham, in 1958. His game, Tennis for Two, was displayed on an oscilloscope. The game was created as a two-player tennis simulation for the Brookhaven National Library. 

Then in 1972, the first home console was released. Designed by Ralph H. Baer, the Magnavox Odyssey marked the beginning of home gaming systems. Baer is often referred to as the “Father of Video Games”. Despite the system only displaying black and white imaging, these basic graphics laid foundations for future consoles. 

Video games played a crucial role in advancing technology and communication. While video games were mostly utilized for entertainment, they pushed the boundaries of software development. As video games became more complex, they required better graphics, faster processors, and increased memory storage. 

Xbox vs. PlayStation

Additionally, the demand and competition influenced the advancement of computer technology. As video game companies were established, they sought to advance more powerful consoles and processor capabilities. An example of this today is the rivalry between Xbox and PlayStation. This competition contributes to the video game industry generating billions in revenue.

The introduction of video games also shaped a tight-knit community. Nolan Bushnell, the founder of Atari said, “A good game is easy to learn but hard to master”. This concept demonstrates how video games became more than just entertainment; they became a platform for players around the world to connect. 

While they can have negative health impacts, they played a valuable role in advancing computing technology and fostering communication. The competition between video game companies encourages the development of processors and graphics, constantly pushing the limits of technology. Video games have also brought people from around the world together to interact and create friendships.

Graph showing the value of the global video games market in billions from 2012 to 2021