26 February 2010
9. Discuss the claim that some areas of knowledge are discovered and others are invented.
Throughout my course of study in Theory of Knowledge, I have discussed and reflected on many aspects of the areas of knowledge as well as knowledge issues that coincide with each area. To effectively discuss this essay topic, I will give supporting arguments to the invention and discovery of three areas of knowledge as well as including pertinent examples to each. In relation to this essay topic, it is important to distinguish between discovery and invention because they sometimes are used interchangeably. The term ‘discovered’ references that the perspective was already present before it was given the title of knowledge. Thus, it existed before it was learned. Also, the term ‘invented’ references that the perspective was not present before it was considered knowledge and was constructed by humans. In this T.O.K. Essay, I will discuss supporting and contrasting arguments to the claims that the areas of knowledge including Human Sciences, History, and the Arts are seen as both discovered and invented.
The claim that Human Sciences is a discovered area of knowledge is a valid argument and is justified by philosophers from ancient Greece. In the beginning of I.B. Psychology my junior year, we covered the history of psychology and its foundations. Three founders of this study include Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle. Around 347 B.C., Plato, a student of Socrates, began his studies by focusing on the quote “Know thyself.” Socrates suggested that through introspection, we can learn a great deal about ourselves. Around this same time period, Aristotle coined the term associationism in which he explained that experiences remind us of similar experiences in the past (Rathus 12).
In order to explicitly argue that this area of knowledge is discovered is further justified by the ancient Greek belief that psychological problems were attributed to punishment by the gods for wrongdoing. This belief and Socrates’ method of introspection can arguably define this area of knowledge as discovered because it is believed to have existed before it was knowledge. By carefully examining our thoughts and feelings, we examine what is already there. Also, the ancient Greek belief that psychological problems were directly associated with the gods is a valid claim for their belief system. They viewed psychological problems as creations by gods and not man-made. Therefore, the ancient Greeks discovered this area of knowledge.
Several ways of knowing were practiced by the ancient Greek philosophers and the ways are still used by psychologists today. The ancient Greeks used two ways of knowing: Personal knowledge by introspection and personal knowledge by conviction. These ways of knowing create knowledge issues within this field of study. For example, the belief and faith in punishment by the gods creates a biased belief. Hippocrates suggested that the psychological problems were not punishment by the gods but rather abnormalities of the brain (Rathus 12). The religious beliefs during this time were influential to the theories made by those exposed to the situation.
As modern psychology took a stronghold, many behavioral scientists took leading roles in their specific area of study. An example is Ivan Pavlov and his classical conditioning experiment involving a dog, meat powder, and a bell. Through his experiment he was capable of manipulating a dog to salivate while being exposed to meat powder and the ringing of a bell. Through classical conditioning, Pavlov manipulated the dog to salivate while a bell is rung in the absence of meat powder. Through conditioning, Pavlov manipulated the dog to produce a certain response. This example supports the claim that this area of knowledge is invented because this action was not produced naturally but rather it was invented by Ivan Pavlov himself.
One prominent way of knowing in this area of knowledge is the impersonal, propositional way of knowing through empirical studies. These studies are open to testing by the justified true belief and are considered to be justifiably true (Woolman 21). The prominent knowledge issue with empirical studies is that they most commonly use the scientific method which has its roots in logic. Inductive logic is used to create the theory then deductive logic is applied which creates explanations and predictions based on the theory. The problem with induction is that it does not give certainty (Woolman 111).
The claim that History is a discovered area of knowledge is justified by my personal experience of Earth Science in eighth grade. Although the example is scientific, it relates to History by pertaining to the geography of the Earth. In this class I learned that long ago, glaciers once existed in the area in which I live. This justifies the claim that History is discovered because the history of the Earth existed before humans gained the knowledge that large ice formations once spanned the continent. This is a very broad example because it does not delve into thorough detail of history of the Earth but it does give a broad justification to the claim that this area of knowledge is discovered. A knowledge issue pertaining to this example is my personal knowledge by belief and my impersonal propositional knowledge by authority (Woolman 12).
Through personal bias, humans tend to reconstruct facts to fit a certain belief system. Two examples of this claim include the use of primary and secondary sources as truth and the way history is reconstructed from one generation to the next. History is often reconstructed through the use of primary and secondary sources. By using these types of sources, the facts they give are often biased and do not represent the opposing viewpoint. An example of this is studying the impact the Vietnam War had on politics during the late 1960’s and early 70’s. An interview of a soldier who fought in Vietnam who had a personal bias against war would generally have a more negative outlook of the conflict than someone who had no knowledge of it. This is an assumption but from a knower’s perspective it is a valid assumption to make. If the interview is then used for a published book primarily focusing on the Vietnam War, it is predisposed to one conception. Also, historians collect facts from multiple sources in which they add to a bias. Therefore, history is each generation’s reconstruction of the past and is invented because it is constructed entirely by humans (Woolman 178).
Lastly, the claim that the Arts are a discovered area of knowledge is validated by my personal experience of art in general. I have grown up in a home with paintings of every size and my father being active in reconstructing the old master’s techniques in oil painting. With lifetime exposure to art and studying the area of the Arts in T.O.K., I began to question the foundations of art and its initial discovery. I consider this area to be discovered because art existed before it was learned by humans. For example, this winter, a layer of snow covered every angle of a tree near the side of the road. The snow was not created by humans or manipulated by humans in any way. This was a very beautiful prospect and something I would consider to be art created by nature. A knowledge issue that pertains to this assertion is that art was not created with the intent to be art. This issue leads to the difficulty of calling art knowledge if it is not seen. If I had not seen this picturesque tree, it can be justified that the tree would not have been given the knowledge of art.
Along with the claim of discovery, I also believe the Arts are an invention by humans. An example of this is my current hobby of railroad photography. In this hobby I photograph trains which evoke a powerful feeling and recreate this feeling through capturing it in a photograph. Many different influences evoke this powerful feeling; the brightness of the sun and physical characteristics of the surrounding area. This feeling is transmitted through my photographs and recreates the feeling I experienced with other railroad photographers. The railroad, invented by humans, evokes this powerful feeling and is therefore invented by humans. Knowledge through this is also invented because it involves my portrayal of an emotion I often feel in my photography.
One knowledge issue associated with the arts and in particularly my photography is the nature of my photos. There is no cross-cultural standard that defines a concept of beauty, so beauty, in this sense, is in the eyes of the beholder. One may clearly see the feeling behind my photography while others, based on the subject matter and personal preference, may not. This is true for any piece of Art. Some may not consider something to be art when another may see it is. This is an issue because, to some, the Arts are not considered an area of knowledge.
In conclusion, by discussing the claims that the areas of knowledge including Human Sciences, History, and the Arts are both discovered and invented, I was able to open my mind to seeing these areas of knowledge from both perspectives. By doing so, I had to give unbiased personal perspectives while maintaining a focus on T.O.K. theory. Through formulations of arguments I was able to critically reflect on ways of knowing and develop limitations to each claim with the intention of giving a balanced view. To summarize this T.O.K. prescribed title, each of the three areas of knowledge can justifiably be considered discovered or invented if thoroughly conveyed with supporting evidence.
References
Rathus, Spencer A. Psychology: Principles in Practice. Austin: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 2007.
Woolman, Michael. Ways of Knowing: An Introduction to Theory of Knowledge. Victoria: IBID Press, 2000.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Public Argument: English 100-Honors
Public Argument
10 November 2010
Snail-Mail vs. Email
Handwritten letters and postal service mail were replaced by email in the early to mid 1990’s. As a result, many people today believe handwritten letters are a ‘thing of the past.’ This assumption is becoming reality due to the overwhelming reliance on email, text-messaging, and the use of instant-messaging devices. Besides computers, many phones and portable devices are capable of sending and receiving text messages and emails, thus, for many, eliminating the need for handwritten or typed mail. Email is a fast and convenient way for people to communicate and is becoming widely accessible to people around the world. Another appealing characteristic of email is that it is free whereas a stamped letter today costs 44 cents and involves traveling to the local post office or mail collector. Emails can also include an almost unlimited amount of information and ‘attachments.’ If a 44 page document was printed out and mailed it would cost several dollars. An email account is almost always free.
Some people are beginning to call the postal service “snail-mail” because it often takes several days to receive something that is sent to you. I had never heard mail called this until my freshman year of college when I received a letter from my dad that read, “Here’s your first piece of snail mail.” I immediately knew what he meant and it was almost saddening to realize that the postal service has a new informal name. Compared to the almost immediate sending of an email, a two day letter from Bowling Green to Covington just doesn’t seem as appealing. On the other hand, there are still young adults who are keeping the tradition of handwritten letters alive. Many students from my graduating class mail one another since we are spread out all across the state. It’s almost as if everyone came to a consensus that Facebook just doesn’t cut it. As I’ve discussed with several of my friends and family, handwritten letters are much more personal because they require time to write and think.
Handwritten letters have many benefits over typed letters or emails in respect to knowledge and practice attained. Taking the time to physically write a letter involves quite a bit of thought and planning. Unlike an email or word document, you can’t as easily erase or start over a handwritten letter, especially if it is written in ink. Spelling and grammar are also enhanced when writing letters. There’s no spell check or auto format with pen and paper, thus making the writer learn correct spelling and format.
Emails and instant messaging communication also have many advantages over handwritten letters. Many emails contain editing and proofreading tools to ‘perfect’ the writing and correct any mistakes it may contain. Instant messaging is also very convenient for people in the 21st century. Email messages can be easily accessed from cell phones and portable computers making it practical to communicate via email instead of ‘snail mail’ in many cases. In today’s society where people demand a fast paced lifestyle, the postal service just doesn’t cut it. In addition to the preference of electronic messaging, many institutions are ‘going green’ and eliminating paper mail altogether. A clear example of this is Western Kentucky University’s online-only application. E-applications are much more convenient and eliminate the usage of paper and time.
My argument isn’t to convince you that handwritten letters are better than emails, or vice versa, but to demonstrate how society is changing from a once postal service based form of written communication to a now online communication medium. Each form of communication has its benefits but it is important to realize the positive effects handwritten letters have over emails in respect to skills gained and improved upon. A problem facing many youths today is the absence of writing skills due to an overreliance on email and spell-check devices which is resulting in poor spelling and grammar. Although email and instant message communication are widely used, it is important for today’s youth to know and learn how to write a letter.
Rhetorical Commentary
This essay is directed toward a younger audience in late teenage years and early adulthood. It is written for youthful academic audience at a university or school setting. My audience, in my opinion, is very rooted in email and instant messaging communication and is therefore very reliant on these types of communication. I believe many people in this audience don’t understand the importance of handwritten letters and in many cases blow the idea off of even thinking of writing a letter. For many, handwriting a letter is too much work compared to quickly typing up an email and pressing ‘send.’ My audience knows the practicality of email and instant messaging but they don’t understand the effects it is having on personal linguistic skills. The purpose of my argument is to present a balanced view handwritten letters versus emails.
I want this argument to at least present the positives about handwritten letters for those who have a differing opinion on this topic. Many young adults and teenagers are very pro email and often don’t realize it. For many, postal mail and written letters have become irrelevant in their lives and they solely rely on email for communication. I want this argument to present to them the positives of handwritten letters.
Strategies I employed in my essay to achieve this effect was to include personal examples and in a sense, my own personal feelings. For example, my example of receiving a letter from my dad where he mentioned “snail-mail” really had an impact on me. I believe it was my ‘ah ha!’ moment where I really realized the importance of handwritten letters. I use email and electronic communication very often but it wasn’t until then that it really hit home that handwritten letters are import (to me at least). I believe I am contributing to the overall discussion of this topic because it isn’t a topic that I see written on or discussed among my peers. In fact, I don’t believe I have read an article on this topic written in a school newspaper or even as an essay for a class.
This isn’t a popular or controversial topic so it will therefore not grab the attention of very many readers. My attempts to grab reader’s attention include using personal examples, having a ‘catchy’ title, and presenting an equal view on both sides of the topic. I try not to demonstrate my preference for handwritten letters but instead I try and explore the benefits to both sides. I would publish this in a university newspaper or publication that has an academic audience.
10 November 2010
Snail-Mail vs. Email
Handwritten letters and postal service mail were replaced by email in the early to mid 1990’s. As a result, many people today believe handwritten letters are a ‘thing of the past.’ This assumption is becoming reality due to the overwhelming reliance on email, text-messaging, and the use of instant-messaging devices. Besides computers, many phones and portable devices are capable of sending and receiving text messages and emails, thus, for many, eliminating the need for handwritten or typed mail. Email is a fast and convenient way for people to communicate and is becoming widely accessible to people around the world. Another appealing characteristic of email is that it is free whereas a stamped letter today costs 44 cents and involves traveling to the local post office or mail collector. Emails can also include an almost unlimited amount of information and ‘attachments.’ If a 44 page document was printed out and mailed it would cost several dollars. An email account is almost always free.
Some people are beginning to call the postal service “snail-mail” because it often takes several days to receive something that is sent to you. I had never heard mail called this until my freshman year of college when I received a letter from my dad that read, “Here’s your first piece of snail mail.” I immediately knew what he meant and it was almost saddening to realize that the postal service has a new informal name. Compared to the almost immediate sending of an email, a two day letter from Bowling Green to Covington just doesn’t seem as appealing. On the other hand, there are still young adults who are keeping the tradition of handwritten letters alive. Many students from my graduating class mail one another since we are spread out all across the state. It’s almost as if everyone came to a consensus that Facebook just doesn’t cut it. As I’ve discussed with several of my friends and family, handwritten letters are much more personal because they require time to write and think.
Handwritten letters have many benefits over typed letters or emails in respect to knowledge and practice attained. Taking the time to physically write a letter involves quite a bit of thought and planning. Unlike an email or word document, you can’t as easily erase or start over a handwritten letter, especially if it is written in ink. Spelling and grammar are also enhanced when writing letters. There’s no spell check or auto format with pen and paper, thus making the writer learn correct spelling and format.
Emails and instant messaging communication also have many advantages over handwritten letters. Many emails contain editing and proofreading tools to ‘perfect’ the writing and correct any mistakes it may contain. Instant messaging is also very convenient for people in the 21st century. Email messages can be easily accessed from cell phones and portable computers making it practical to communicate via email instead of ‘snail mail’ in many cases. In today’s society where people demand a fast paced lifestyle, the postal service just doesn’t cut it. In addition to the preference of electronic messaging, many institutions are ‘going green’ and eliminating paper mail altogether. A clear example of this is Western Kentucky University’s online-only application. E-applications are much more convenient and eliminate the usage of paper and time.
My argument isn’t to convince you that handwritten letters are better than emails, or vice versa, but to demonstrate how society is changing from a once postal service based form of written communication to a now online communication medium. Each form of communication has its benefits but it is important to realize the positive effects handwritten letters have over emails in respect to skills gained and improved upon. A problem facing many youths today is the absence of writing skills due to an overreliance on email and spell-check devices which is resulting in poor spelling and grammar. Although email and instant message communication are widely used, it is important for today’s youth to know and learn how to write a letter.
Rhetorical Commentary
This essay is directed toward a younger audience in late teenage years and early adulthood. It is written for youthful academic audience at a university or school setting. My audience, in my opinion, is very rooted in email and instant messaging communication and is therefore very reliant on these types of communication. I believe many people in this audience don’t understand the importance of handwritten letters and in many cases blow the idea off of even thinking of writing a letter. For many, handwriting a letter is too much work compared to quickly typing up an email and pressing ‘send.’ My audience knows the practicality of email and instant messaging but they don’t understand the effects it is having on personal linguistic skills. The purpose of my argument is to present a balanced view handwritten letters versus emails.
I want this argument to at least present the positives about handwritten letters for those who have a differing opinion on this topic. Many young adults and teenagers are very pro email and often don’t realize it. For many, postal mail and written letters have become irrelevant in their lives and they solely rely on email for communication. I want this argument to present to them the positives of handwritten letters.
Strategies I employed in my essay to achieve this effect was to include personal examples and in a sense, my own personal feelings. For example, my example of receiving a letter from my dad where he mentioned “snail-mail” really had an impact on me. I believe it was my ‘ah ha!’ moment where I really realized the importance of handwritten letters. I use email and electronic communication very often but it wasn’t until then that it really hit home that handwritten letters are import (to me at least). I believe I am contributing to the overall discussion of this topic because it isn’t a topic that I see written on or discussed among my peers. In fact, I don’t believe I have read an article on this topic written in a school newspaper or even as an essay for a class.
This isn’t a popular or controversial topic so it will therefore not grab the attention of very many readers. My attempts to grab reader’s attention include using personal examples, having a ‘catchy’ title, and presenting an equal view on both sides of the topic. I try not to demonstrate my preference for handwritten letters but instead I try and explore the benefits to both sides. I would publish this in a university newspaper or publication that has an academic audience.
Mini-Review of Pop Culture Analysis: English 100-Honors
Mini-Review
4 October 2010
Website: http://genpopculture.blogspot.com/
“Gender in Commercials Today” by Michelle
A good example of pop culture analysis that can be found online is Michelle’s Pop Culture Analysis on Blogspot.com. Because her blog is written primarily for a class at the College of New Jersey, she is able to maintain an objective view throughout many of her works simply because she is writing for someone other than herself. Although her purpose is unclear, much of her work isn’t written with the intent to impose a certain viewpoint but mainly to analytically discuss some observations she has had in the past.
In Michelle’s article “Gender in Commercials Today,” she describes many instances in which gender ideas are portrayed and influenced by society and how they are reflected in T.V. commercials. Although the author doesn’t focus on a certain phrase or specific subject, her overall theme is society’s influence on gender portrayed in T.V. commercials. One specific example is her claim that commercials are portraying the idea of a ‘perfect body.’ In addition to citing a statement from Jean Kilbourne’s article titled “The More You Subtract the More You Add,” the author concludes her claim by saying that those who are fit and muscular “have power in that they are happy to have obtained the “perfect body.” Her use of the word “power” is important to the overall tone of this article because this “power” is symbolic for the power these commercials are having on society. She inadvertently states that this “perfect body” concept is a direct result of pop culture today.
“Gender in Commercials Today” does a good job portraying gender-related themes within T.V. commercials. The author blends her own observations with cited sources to create a reliable and analytical discussion of gender ideas and perceptions in American society today. With 34 comments to this individual article and over 97,000 views to her entire blog, Michelle’s Pop Culture Analysis appears to be a reliable and well-read location for pop culture analysis.
4 October 2010
Website: http://genpopculture.blogspot.com/
“Gender in Commercials Today” by Michelle
A good example of pop culture analysis that can be found online is Michelle’s Pop Culture Analysis on Blogspot.com. Because her blog is written primarily for a class at the College of New Jersey, she is able to maintain an objective view throughout many of her works simply because she is writing for someone other than herself. Although her purpose is unclear, much of her work isn’t written with the intent to impose a certain viewpoint but mainly to analytically discuss some observations she has had in the past.
In Michelle’s article “Gender in Commercials Today,” she describes many instances in which gender ideas are portrayed and influenced by society and how they are reflected in T.V. commercials. Although the author doesn’t focus on a certain phrase or specific subject, her overall theme is society’s influence on gender portrayed in T.V. commercials. One specific example is her claim that commercials are portraying the idea of a ‘perfect body.’ In addition to citing a statement from Jean Kilbourne’s article titled “The More You Subtract the More You Add,” the author concludes her claim by saying that those who are fit and muscular “have power in that they are happy to have obtained the “perfect body.” Her use of the word “power” is important to the overall tone of this article because this “power” is symbolic for the power these commercials are having on society. She inadvertently states that this “perfect body” concept is a direct result of pop culture today.
“Gender in Commercials Today” does a good job portraying gender-related themes within T.V. commercials. The author blends her own observations with cited sources to create a reliable and analytical discussion of gender ideas and perceptions in American society today. With 34 comments to this individual article and over 97,000 views to her entire blog, Michelle’s Pop Culture Analysis appears to be a reliable and well-read location for pop culture analysis.
Major Essay Two: English 100-Honors
Major Essay Two
25 October 2010
Today’s Biggest Distraction
Constant media stimulation has become problematic to the way people live their lives. Children, young adults, and even a growing number of older adults are becoming connected through mobile technology. It seems that anymore it is hard to find somewhere quiet because a cell phone is ringing or someone is talking on a cell phone (usually louder than necessary). Whether someone is studying in the library or walking around the local mall, it is almost inevitable that you will experience someone using a cell phone and/or listening to some type of portable music device. Also, the use of cell phones while operating a vehicle is becoming increasingly problematic due to safety concerns. Such examples serve as distractions for both the user and those around them in most environments. Constant media stimulation through mobile technology is very problematic for society today for many reasons including its immense presence in our lives and the effects it is proving to be having.
Portable media has become very widespread in the past decade. According to CTIA The Wireless Association, June 1995 reported 28.1 million wireless subscriber connections, roughly 11% of the total United States Population. In June 2010, 15 years later, there were a reported total of 292.8 million wireless subscriber connections, roughly 93% of the United States population (“Wireless Quick Facts: Mid-Year Figures”). As of February 2005, “as many as 22 million American adults, or about 11 percent of the U.S. population, own iPods or other MP3 players, a new study has found” (“Who’s Buying iPods?”). It is undeniable that portable media is invading many American’s lives and reaching out to all generations. By simply walking around and observing an urban public space you are sure to witness this burst in portable media technology.
Ipods and other portable media have become very important pieces of many people’s lives. As Tony Smith says in “GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge,” “Take a look around campus while you’re trekking the hill. Can you walk for two minutes without seeing a fellow student listening to an iPod or chatting/”txtin” on a cell phone? Can you sit in peace for more than 10 minutes without hearing “one of today’s Billboard’s hottest-hits” as a tinny broken-record-like ringtone?” (Smith, Tony). Mr. Smith was completely accurate when asking if you can “sit in peace for more than ten minutes” because, as a student myself, I experience this same dilemma. It is common not only on campus but in the library, study rooms, and even classrooms.
Recently I was preparing for my Developmental Psychology class in a study area of Tate Page Hall at Western Kentucky University. I read several lines of the chapter of my textbook and was abruptly interrupted by a ringing cell phone. Instead of leaving the study area, the student proceeded to speak nonchalantly to her caller. Frustrated and angry, I left the building to read outside. About 20 minutes later I returned to the building and sat in the same seat as before and began to read. Several minutes passed and a student sitting several chairs away turned on his MP3 player, presumably an iPod, and had the volume to the point that I could hear it clearly. At this point I felt trapped in a world of inconsiderate people. What struck me the most was that the interruptions were not by the people themselves but of manmade portable devices. I’m not the only one experiencing these distractions. In May 2009, Press Secretary Robert Gates was holding a press conference when a reporter’s cell phone began ringing. The interruption caused an uproar of laughter and ultimately disrupted the press conference being held (Vicevich, Jim). Both my experience and the press conference interruption portray the reality of portable media distractions. Like the definition of equal-opportunity affliction for drugs, portable media distractions can affect anyone regardless of education, income, occupation, or age.
A more controversial topic among teenagers and even some adults is Kentucky’s new law regarding cell phone usage while driving. On April 15, 2010, Governor Beshear signed House Bill 415 stating,
No person shall, while operating a motor vehicle that is in motion on the traveled portion of a roadway, write, send, or read text-based communication using a personal communication device to manually communicate with any person using text-based communication, including but not limited to communications referred to as a text message, instant message, or electronic mail. (“Kentucky 2010 Update: Governor Signs Cell Phone/Text Messaging Bill into Law”)
This new law is a response to increasing accidents and deaths due to cell phone/portable media usage while operating a vehicle. Kentucky is one of many states enacting similar legislation. This new law will have a definite impact but most importantly sends a message to drivers that distracted driving is dangerous driving. From personal experience, I have had near wrecks because of other driver’s texting and calling on their cell phones. My experience isn’t limited to teenagers. I specifically recall a man in a business suit talking on his cell phone and merging into my lane nearly causing an accident. There have also been many times around the campus of Western Kentucky University where a teenager or young adult is texting while pulling out of a parking lot, nearly hitting me as I walk on the sidewalk.
Cell phones and portable media are great inventions and are examples of 21st century technology. Despite many problems associated with their usage, portable media has many benefits. In my own life, cell phones have given me a sense of security and connection to home. My father always knew my location and was able to call me when something urgent came up. Attending an inner-city high school had its dangerous moments and having a cell phone gave me security in some of the not-so-safe areas of school and my community. My iPod has given me easier accessibility to the music I enjoy and has helped me connect and share music with my friends. Portable media in general has greatly benefited my life and many of its benefits outweigh its negative aspects.
How does portable media affect your life? Do you get distracted by someone’s cell phone ringing? Or are you the owner of the ringing cell phone? It is important to assess the effects portable media has in your daily life because you may be the one whose phone rings in the library or the one who answers that text message and swerves a little too far in the other lane. Portable media can be very distracting and disruptive at times and can cause trouble and headache for many. So finally, when it comes to portable media, are you the distracter or the distracted?
Rhetorical Commentary
Purpose:
The purpose of my essay is to provide personal accounts as well as accounts from other sources regarding cell phone and other portable media distractions and disruptions that are present in society today. I chose this topic because a few days before I began to write this essay I was sitting in Tate Page Hall studying psychology (the example in the essay). When I was given the assignment to write about problems associated with near constant media stimulation, I found my recent experience to be a great topic. The topic is relevant to my life and enables me to use personal feelings and examples to portray in my essay.
Audience:
The essay is aimed towards an audience of anyone who is interested in how portable media distracts and disrupts aspects of daily life. I chose sources that are currently available to the public online and have a positive reputation as being reliable. These sources relate to my audience because most are readily available and have the potential for further research by the reader. I hope to inform my audience about my experience with cell phone and portable media distractions.
Effects:
This essay is meant to inform my audience about the prevalence of cell phone distractions and disruptions in daily life. Through the use of my personal examples and sources I have attempted to create awareness of this topic to my readers. I want each reader to look at their own life and see how disruptive cell phones and other portable media can be to their daily life. I also included a paragraph in my essay describing the benefits of this technology because I didn’t want to appear to be condemning portable technology but merely criticizing it for some of its flaws.
Strengths:
This essay has many strengths that add to its overall tone. The first strength is that my use of personal examples gives the essay a personal touch and may help it better relate to the audience. My use of sources is also beneficial because they provide statistical data and other information that builds upon my own examples.
Weaknesses:
I still feel that my essay lacks a conclusion with a ‘punch.’ I believe it sums up my essay well but doesn’t contain a concrete conclusion. I would like to expand more upon the use of cell phones when driving and that topic could have easily been an essay of its own. Because this is such a broad topic, I think further analysis would be beneficial for informing my audience.
Strategies:
As I began research for this topic I realized just how distracting cell phones and other portable media really are. I assume I have become desensitized to their effects and at times simply do not notice them. After doing research and reading several articles I began to understand how common these distractions are in my life and how bothersome and annoying they really are. Watching Jim Vicevich’s YouTube video of Robert Gates’ press conference made me realize that I’m not the only person who becomes aggravated with cell phone interruptions. Someone as important as The White House Press Secretary was disrupted by something that occurs often in my life.
Revisions:
My essay has had many revisions and I have had to omit several paragraphs and thoughts since its beginning. My first rough draft was only about 900 words and had many examples from other sources. It contained a strong introduction but a weak conclusion. The writing workshop in class was very beneficial to my essay because my classmates gave me constructive criticism to help make my essay better. One comment said, “Overall I think you are on the right track, there could be some more evidence, and it doesn’t have to just be facts and statistics, maybe just some more personal accounts about how it has affected you. Also I think you should write a strong conclusion that better sums up the point of your paper.” This comment helped me develop my purpose and goals because my first rough draft didn’t contain any personal accounts. It was more of a research paper than an academic argument. These revisions improved my ability to assess my own style and rhetoric even more because the commentary in the writing workshop gave me pointers to make my essay better.
Works Cited
“Kentucky 2010 Update: Governor Signs Cell Phone / Text Messaging Bill into Law.” DrivingLaws.org. Kentucky Cell Phone Laws. Web. 24 Oct. 2010.
Smith, Tony. “GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge.” WKUHerald.com. The Herald, 15 Nov. 2007. Web 21 Oct. 2010.
Vicevich, Jim. "Robert Gibbs Cell Phone Fiasco." 13 May 2009. Online video clip. YouTube. Accessed on 24 Oct. 2010. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGI6hM513i0
“Who’s Buying iPods?” CNET News.com. CNET News, 15 Feb. 2005. Web. 21 Oct. 2010.
“Wireless Quick Facts: Mid-Year Figures.” CTIA The Wireless Association. CTIA Media. Web. 22 Oct. 2010.
25 October 2010
Today’s Biggest Distraction
Constant media stimulation has become problematic to the way people live their lives. Children, young adults, and even a growing number of older adults are becoming connected through mobile technology. It seems that anymore it is hard to find somewhere quiet because a cell phone is ringing or someone is talking on a cell phone (usually louder than necessary). Whether someone is studying in the library or walking around the local mall, it is almost inevitable that you will experience someone using a cell phone and/or listening to some type of portable music device. Also, the use of cell phones while operating a vehicle is becoming increasingly problematic due to safety concerns. Such examples serve as distractions for both the user and those around them in most environments. Constant media stimulation through mobile technology is very problematic for society today for many reasons including its immense presence in our lives and the effects it is proving to be having.
Portable media has become very widespread in the past decade. According to CTIA The Wireless Association, June 1995 reported 28.1 million wireless subscriber connections, roughly 11% of the total United States Population. In June 2010, 15 years later, there were a reported total of 292.8 million wireless subscriber connections, roughly 93% of the United States population (“Wireless Quick Facts: Mid-Year Figures”). As of February 2005, “as many as 22 million American adults, or about 11 percent of the U.S. population, own iPods or other MP3 players, a new study has found” (“Who’s Buying iPods?”). It is undeniable that portable media is invading many American’s lives and reaching out to all generations. By simply walking around and observing an urban public space you are sure to witness this burst in portable media technology.
Ipods and other portable media have become very important pieces of many people’s lives. As Tony Smith says in “GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge,” “Take a look around campus while you’re trekking the hill. Can you walk for two minutes without seeing a fellow student listening to an iPod or chatting/”txtin” on a cell phone? Can you sit in peace for more than 10 minutes without hearing “one of today’s Billboard’s hottest-hits” as a tinny broken-record-like ringtone?” (Smith, Tony). Mr. Smith was completely accurate when asking if you can “sit in peace for more than ten minutes” because, as a student myself, I experience this same dilemma. It is common not only on campus but in the library, study rooms, and even classrooms.
Recently I was preparing for my Developmental Psychology class in a study area of Tate Page Hall at Western Kentucky University. I read several lines of the chapter of my textbook and was abruptly interrupted by a ringing cell phone. Instead of leaving the study area, the student proceeded to speak nonchalantly to her caller. Frustrated and angry, I left the building to read outside. About 20 minutes later I returned to the building and sat in the same seat as before and began to read. Several minutes passed and a student sitting several chairs away turned on his MP3 player, presumably an iPod, and had the volume to the point that I could hear it clearly. At this point I felt trapped in a world of inconsiderate people. What struck me the most was that the interruptions were not by the people themselves but of manmade portable devices. I’m not the only one experiencing these distractions. In May 2009, Press Secretary Robert Gates was holding a press conference when a reporter’s cell phone began ringing. The interruption caused an uproar of laughter and ultimately disrupted the press conference being held (Vicevich, Jim). Both my experience and the press conference interruption portray the reality of portable media distractions. Like the definition of equal-opportunity affliction for drugs, portable media distractions can affect anyone regardless of education, income, occupation, or age.
A more controversial topic among teenagers and even some adults is Kentucky’s new law regarding cell phone usage while driving. On April 15, 2010, Governor Beshear signed House Bill 415 stating,
No person shall, while operating a motor vehicle that is in motion on the traveled portion of a roadway, write, send, or read text-based communication using a personal communication device to manually communicate with any person using text-based communication, including but not limited to communications referred to as a text message, instant message, or electronic mail. (“Kentucky 2010 Update: Governor Signs Cell Phone/Text Messaging Bill into Law”)
This new law is a response to increasing accidents and deaths due to cell phone/portable media usage while operating a vehicle. Kentucky is one of many states enacting similar legislation. This new law will have a definite impact but most importantly sends a message to drivers that distracted driving is dangerous driving. From personal experience, I have had near wrecks because of other driver’s texting and calling on their cell phones. My experience isn’t limited to teenagers. I specifically recall a man in a business suit talking on his cell phone and merging into my lane nearly causing an accident. There have also been many times around the campus of Western Kentucky University where a teenager or young adult is texting while pulling out of a parking lot, nearly hitting me as I walk on the sidewalk.
Cell phones and portable media are great inventions and are examples of 21st century technology. Despite many problems associated with their usage, portable media has many benefits. In my own life, cell phones have given me a sense of security and connection to home. My father always knew my location and was able to call me when something urgent came up. Attending an inner-city high school had its dangerous moments and having a cell phone gave me security in some of the not-so-safe areas of school and my community. My iPod has given me easier accessibility to the music I enjoy and has helped me connect and share music with my friends. Portable media in general has greatly benefited my life and many of its benefits outweigh its negative aspects.
How does portable media affect your life? Do you get distracted by someone’s cell phone ringing? Or are you the owner of the ringing cell phone? It is important to assess the effects portable media has in your daily life because you may be the one whose phone rings in the library or the one who answers that text message and swerves a little too far in the other lane. Portable media can be very distracting and disruptive at times and can cause trouble and headache for many. So finally, when it comes to portable media, are you the distracter or the distracted?
Rhetorical Commentary
Purpose:
The purpose of my essay is to provide personal accounts as well as accounts from other sources regarding cell phone and other portable media distractions and disruptions that are present in society today. I chose this topic because a few days before I began to write this essay I was sitting in Tate Page Hall studying psychology (the example in the essay). When I was given the assignment to write about problems associated with near constant media stimulation, I found my recent experience to be a great topic. The topic is relevant to my life and enables me to use personal feelings and examples to portray in my essay.
Audience:
The essay is aimed towards an audience of anyone who is interested in how portable media distracts and disrupts aspects of daily life. I chose sources that are currently available to the public online and have a positive reputation as being reliable. These sources relate to my audience because most are readily available and have the potential for further research by the reader. I hope to inform my audience about my experience with cell phone and portable media distractions.
Effects:
This essay is meant to inform my audience about the prevalence of cell phone distractions and disruptions in daily life. Through the use of my personal examples and sources I have attempted to create awareness of this topic to my readers. I want each reader to look at their own life and see how disruptive cell phones and other portable media can be to their daily life. I also included a paragraph in my essay describing the benefits of this technology because I didn’t want to appear to be condemning portable technology but merely criticizing it for some of its flaws.
Strengths:
This essay has many strengths that add to its overall tone. The first strength is that my use of personal examples gives the essay a personal touch and may help it better relate to the audience. My use of sources is also beneficial because they provide statistical data and other information that builds upon my own examples.
Weaknesses:
I still feel that my essay lacks a conclusion with a ‘punch.’ I believe it sums up my essay well but doesn’t contain a concrete conclusion. I would like to expand more upon the use of cell phones when driving and that topic could have easily been an essay of its own. Because this is such a broad topic, I think further analysis would be beneficial for informing my audience.
Strategies:
As I began research for this topic I realized just how distracting cell phones and other portable media really are. I assume I have become desensitized to their effects and at times simply do not notice them. After doing research and reading several articles I began to understand how common these distractions are in my life and how bothersome and annoying they really are. Watching Jim Vicevich’s YouTube video of Robert Gates’ press conference made me realize that I’m not the only person who becomes aggravated with cell phone interruptions. Someone as important as The White House Press Secretary was disrupted by something that occurs often in my life.
Revisions:
My essay has had many revisions and I have had to omit several paragraphs and thoughts since its beginning. My first rough draft was only about 900 words and had many examples from other sources. It contained a strong introduction but a weak conclusion. The writing workshop in class was very beneficial to my essay because my classmates gave me constructive criticism to help make my essay better. One comment said, “Overall I think you are on the right track, there could be some more evidence, and it doesn’t have to just be facts and statistics, maybe just some more personal accounts about how it has affected you. Also I think you should write a strong conclusion that better sums up the point of your paper.” This comment helped me develop my purpose and goals because my first rough draft didn’t contain any personal accounts. It was more of a research paper than an academic argument. These revisions improved my ability to assess my own style and rhetoric even more because the commentary in the writing workshop gave me pointers to make my essay better.
Works Cited
“Kentucky 2010 Update: Governor Signs Cell Phone / Text Messaging Bill into Law.” DrivingLaws.org. Kentucky Cell Phone Laws. Web. 24 Oct. 2010.
Smith, Tony. “GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge.” WKUHerald.com. The Herald, 15 Nov. 2007. Web 21 Oct. 2010.
Vicevich, Jim. "Robert Gibbs Cell Phone Fiasco." 13 May 2009. Online video clip. YouTube. Accessed on 24 Oct. 2010. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGI6hM513i0
“Who’s Buying iPods?” CNET News.com. CNET News, 15 Feb. 2005. Web. 21 Oct. 2010.
“Wireless Quick Facts: Mid-Year Figures.” CTIA The Wireless Association. CTIA Media. Web. 22 Oct. 2010.
Major Essay One: English 100 Honors
Major Essay One
27 September 2010
The Ultimate Distraction: Generation Y’s Misuse and Abuse of Technology
The past decade has seen a dramatic increase in the availability of modern-day technology to people across the globe. Much of this technology has the ability to create a highly informed society by providing limitless amounts of information available almost immediately. As Mark Bauerlein states in The Dumbest Generation, “We have entered the Information Age, traveled the Information Superhighway, spawned a Knowledge Economy, undergone the Digital Revolution, converted manual workers into knowledgeable workers, and promoted a Creative Class, and we anticipate a Conceptual Age to be” (Bauerlein 8). The basis for this argument rests solely in the fact that today’s youth have an unlimited supply of information and knowledge brought forth through modern-day technology. And yet, despite these great opportunities, research indicates that technology is becoming a major distraction at home and in school. Young Americans are showing a pattern of misuse and abuse of many opportunities technology provides.
Some college students are observing the effects modern-day technology is having on their peers. An article in the W.K.U. Herald was written by a student and focused on how dependent and nearly obsessed many college students are with modern-day technology and culture. Tony Smith’s GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge article asks several reflective questions, “Can you walk for two minutes without seeing a fellow student listening to an iPod or chatting/”txtin” on a cell phone? Can you sit in peace for more than 10 minutes without hearing “one of today’s Billboard’s hottest-hits” as a tinny broken-record-like ringtone?” (Smith, Tony). This observation portrays a dilemma that is becoming widespread in the United States. As students travel to and from class they are constantly ‘plugged-in’ to several forms of media whether it is a cell phone, iPod, or both. It isn’t uncommon for students to walk into each other because their eyes were so intently focused on the small screen of a cell phone. In many instances, when a teacher has his or her back to the class, it isn’t uncommon to see at least one student pull out a cell phone during class. Similarly, if a student sits far enough from the teacher, he or she may be seen wearing headphones and listening to music instead of listening to the day’s lecture.
A group of scientists took it upon themselves to gain first-hand experience at what it would be like without using modern-day technology. The group spent a week in remote Utah without cell phones, computers, or any possible technological distraction. Their goal was to study the brain. On the third day of the retreat the scientists experienced a significant feeling. One scientist recalled, “You start to feel more relaxed. Maybe you sleep a little better. You don’t reach for your phone pinging in your pocket.” The scientists termed this the “three-day effect” (Npr.org). This observation provides the effects technology is having on American youth today. The absence of technology for three days gives a sense of relief and to some, relaxation. That can only mean that being immersed in today’s technology is having the opposite effect on humans and is undoubtedly a large portion of young Americans’ lives. Some scientists were skeptical in believing that technology is harmful but “they did say things like ‘I am not as engaged in my world when I’m constantly using devices as I am when I am away from them.” Furthermore, scientists are asking “how much is too much, when it comes to processing technology…where instead of informing us, distracts us and impedes our productivity? There is growing evidence that the line is closer than we’ve ever imagined” (Npr.org). Scientists agree that there becomes a point when too much technology becomes counterproductive. In many cases, Generation Y is coming under close scrutiny for crossing the line from technological productivity to becoming counterproductive. This evidence alone helps to support Bauerlein’s assumption that “we anticipate a Conceptual Age to be” (Bauerlein 8) because many believe technology is benefiting today’s youth but many aren’t realizing the underlying implications it is currently having.
Cell phones have become great devices for young Americans for communication with parents, a source of safety, and a way of engaging socially with peers. Stanford University did a study of cell phones and arrived at an unsurprising conclusion, “When you check your information, when you get a buzz in your pocket, when you get a ring – you get what they call a dopamine squirt. You get a little rush of adrenaline…You’re conditioned by a neurological response. ‘Check me check me check me check me’” (Npr.org). Any young American cell phone owner understands the reality of this finding. As stated previously, many students operate a cell phone during class and in many other instances it is not necessarily appropriate to do so. A common scenario that exemplifies the Stanford University study’s findings is a college freshman taking an exam in class. As they take the exam, they feel their phone vibrate in their pocket. Luckily, they remembered to put it on vibrate unlike other classmates who let their phones ring and interrupt class. As the student ponders what to do, their mind drifts from taking the exam to wondering who the message is from and what it says. The reality of this situation is that the student begins to focus their attention more on the cell phone instead of the exam that was being taken. Many students, despite age, would attest to being a victim of this scenario.
Cell phones are only one of many forms of technology that are having a counterproductive impact on young Americans today. Mark Bauerlein introduces an alarming yet reflective piece of evidence that discusses the impact television is having on children. He states that “The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to keep two-year olds and under away from the television screen altogether, and to restrict older children to one to two hours of educational programming per day” (Bauerlein 75). Television consumption is beginning to replace many of the essential experiences needed for positive childhood growth. During these critical years of childhood development, “research shows that very young children learn better from live demonstrations than they do from videotapes” (Feldman 166). There has been much research focused on parental reliance on educational videotapes and other media. Bauerlein proceeds to indicate, “But the 1,000+ subjects in the Kaiser study, ranging from six months to six years old, went well beyond that. They averaged fully one hour and 58 minutes per day on screen media” (Bauerlein 75). Similar to cell phone usage, children are viewing excessive amounts of television and research strongly suggests that there are possible negative cognitive consequences. In many cases, this is the beginning of a child’s misuse of technology and isn’t necessarily his or her own fault. The group of scientists in remote Utah would agree that this finding is alarming because they themselves live the effects television and other technology has and it can be inferred through their observations and the American Academy of Pediatrics that technological distractions would be more harmful for younger children.
With technology becoming increasingly important and demanding as time progresses, it will continue to have the same effects that scientists, researchers, and concerned citizens are indicating and finding in studies. Unlike teenagers today, younger children are growing up only knowing cell phones while many will never have a landline telephone in their home again. This reality is similar for computers in homes as well. Technology has and will continue to impose itself in the lives’ of young Americans leading to its misuse and abuse and only worsening as a distraction. Tony Smith concludes his article with a more personal note that questions the technological future of society, “I can hardly imagine what’s in store for the next generation. The generation gap is always increasing; someday iPhones will seem archaic, the internet will be old news and even GenYNot, at over 10 megs per second, our lightening-like live-fast-die-young only-if-it’s-for-the-benefit-of-myself generation will be slow and un-hip” (Smith, Tony). With extensive research and findings, it is difficult to suggest that modern-day technology isn’t a distraction for American youth. Only time will portray the impact these distractions will have had on Generation Y.
Rhetorical Commentary
The purpose of my essay is to convincingly portray that technology is becoming a major distraction to young Americans through its misuse and outright abuse. I chose this topic because throughout my life I have seen the progression of technology and how it affects many in my life, most importantly my friends. Americans born in the early 1990’s are the first to experience such widespread usage of modern-day technology and few fully understand the implications it currently has and will continue to have throughout their lives.
This essay is aimed towards an audience of anyone who is interested in the effects modern-day technology is having on today’s youth. I chose sources that are currently available to the public online, a novel that is currently a national bestseller, and a college level psychology textbook. These sources relate to my audience because most are readily available and have the potential for further research by the reader.
As I began research for this topic I quickly noticed a connection between this essay and my Developmental Psychology class. We recently completed a chapter on infants’ cognitive development and in that chapter contains an article explaining popular cognitive enhancing video programs in relation to any beneficial elements they may have for infants. After reading The Dumbest Generation and many other articles on this topic, I began to see a connection. The article in my psychology textbook reads, “research shows that very young children learn better from live demonstrations than they do from videotapes” (Feldman 166). I began noticing a common criticism that technology is benefiting today’s youth in some ways but making them ‘dumb’ at the same time.
I began realizing how technology affects my life and especially my peers and how much of a distraction it truly is and that many, including myself, misuse technology to the point that we abuse the great opportunities it provides. I am guilty of Tony Smith’s question, “Can you walk for two minutes without seeing a fellow student listening to an iPod or chatting/”txtin” on a cell phone?” (Smith, Tony). I am that fellow student that is commonly texting on my cell phone and occasionally chatting.
As I read more articles and gained a more open mind to this topic, I began to connect many of these assumptions to my own life which has made me strive to portray it to those who are interested in the effects modern-day technology is having on youth. By being a primary source, I have had the opportunity to mix adults’ criticisms of youth and technology with my own experiences. With this in mind, my goals in this essay were to help others open their minds to effects modern-day technology is having on today’s youth. I feel that I have accomplished this goal because I myself have gained a better insight to this topic. It isn’t a topic I felt strong writing about but after completing it I feel that I have opened my mind to my generation’s use of technology. Before immersing myself into this topic I was very hesitant and resistant to even accept Bauerlein’s or many other author’s arguments about the effects modern-day technology is currently having.
In conclusion, I believe my essay has much more room for improvement as well as deeper and further analysis on this broad topic. This essay merely ‘scratches the surface’ and needs to be taken further to completely prove any point. Although there is strong support for this topic, it is still a theory because there are many researchers and observers that are skeptical to the claim that modern-day technology is a distraction to American youth.
Works Cited
Bauerlein, Mark. The Dumbest Generation. New York: Penguin, 2009. Print.
“Digital Overload: Your Brain on Gadgets.” Npr.org. National Public Radio, 24 August 2010. Web. 23 Sept. 2010.
Feldman, Robert S. Development Across the Lifespan. 5th ed. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education, 2008. Print.
Smith, Tony. “GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge.” WKUHerald.com. The Herald, 15 Nov. 2007. Web. 23 Sept. 2010.
27 September 2010
The Ultimate Distraction: Generation Y’s Misuse and Abuse of Technology
The past decade has seen a dramatic increase in the availability of modern-day technology to people across the globe. Much of this technology has the ability to create a highly informed society by providing limitless amounts of information available almost immediately. As Mark Bauerlein states in The Dumbest Generation, “We have entered the Information Age, traveled the Information Superhighway, spawned a Knowledge Economy, undergone the Digital Revolution, converted manual workers into knowledgeable workers, and promoted a Creative Class, and we anticipate a Conceptual Age to be” (Bauerlein 8). The basis for this argument rests solely in the fact that today’s youth have an unlimited supply of information and knowledge brought forth through modern-day technology. And yet, despite these great opportunities, research indicates that technology is becoming a major distraction at home and in school. Young Americans are showing a pattern of misuse and abuse of many opportunities technology provides.
Some college students are observing the effects modern-day technology is having on their peers. An article in the W.K.U. Herald was written by a student and focused on how dependent and nearly obsessed many college students are with modern-day technology and culture. Tony Smith’s GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge article asks several reflective questions, “Can you walk for two minutes without seeing a fellow student listening to an iPod or chatting/”txtin” on a cell phone? Can you sit in peace for more than 10 minutes without hearing “one of today’s Billboard’s hottest-hits” as a tinny broken-record-like ringtone?” (Smith, Tony). This observation portrays a dilemma that is becoming widespread in the United States. As students travel to and from class they are constantly ‘plugged-in’ to several forms of media whether it is a cell phone, iPod, or both. It isn’t uncommon for students to walk into each other because their eyes were so intently focused on the small screen of a cell phone. In many instances, when a teacher has his or her back to the class, it isn’t uncommon to see at least one student pull out a cell phone during class. Similarly, if a student sits far enough from the teacher, he or she may be seen wearing headphones and listening to music instead of listening to the day’s lecture.
A group of scientists took it upon themselves to gain first-hand experience at what it would be like without using modern-day technology. The group spent a week in remote Utah without cell phones, computers, or any possible technological distraction. Their goal was to study the brain. On the third day of the retreat the scientists experienced a significant feeling. One scientist recalled, “You start to feel more relaxed. Maybe you sleep a little better. You don’t reach for your phone pinging in your pocket.” The scientists termed this the “three-day effect” (Npr.org). This observation provides the effects technology is having on American youth today. The absence of technology for three days gives a sense of relief and to some, relaxation. That can only mean that being immersed in today’s technology is having the opposite effect on humans and is undoubtedly a large portion of young Americans’ lives. Some scientists were skeptical in believing that technology is harmful but “they did say things like ‘I am not as engaged in my world when I’m constantly using devices as I am when I am away from them.” Furthermore, scientists are asking “how much is too much, when it comes to processing technology…where instead of informing us, distracts us and impedes our productivity? There is growing evidence that the line is closer than we’ve ever imagined” (Npr.org). Scientists agree that there becomes a point when too much technology becomes counterproductive. In many cases, Generation Y is coming under close scrutiny for crossing the line from technological productivity to becoming counterproductive. This evidence alone helps to support Bauerlein’s assumption that “we anticipate a Conceptual Age to be” (Bauerlein 8) because many believe technology is benefiting today’s youth but many aren’t realizing the underlying implications it is currently having.
Cell phones have become great devices for young Americans for communication with parents, a source of safety, and a way of engaging socially with peers. Stanford University did a study of cell phones and arrived at an unsurprising conclusion, “When you check your information, when you get a buzz in your pocket, when you get a ring – you get what they call a dopamine squirt. You get a little rush of adrenaline…You’re conditioned by a neurological response. ‘Check me check me check me check me’” (Npr.org). Any young American cell phone owner understands the reality of this finding. As stated previously, many students operate a cell phone during class and in many other instances it is not necessarily appropriate to do so. A common scenario that exemplifies the Stanford University study’s findings is a college freshman taking an exam in class. As they take the exam, they feel their phone vibrate in their pocket. Luckily, they remembered to put it on vibrate unlike other classmates who let their phones ring and interrupt class. As the student ponders what to do, their mind drifts from taking the exam to wondering who the message is from and what it says. The reality of this situation is that the student begins to focus their attention more on the cell phone instead of the exam that was being taken. Many students, despite age, would attest to being a victim of this scenario.
Cell phones are only one of many forms of technology that are having a counterproductive impact on young Americans today. Mark Bauerlein introduces an alarming yet reflective piece of evidence that discusses the impact television is having on children. He states that “The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to keep two-year olds and under away from the television screen altogether, and to restrict older children to one to two hours of educational programming per day” (Bauerlein 75). Television consumption is beginning to replace many of the essential experiences needed for positive childhood growth. During these critical years of childhood development, “research shows that very young children learn better from live demonstrations than they do from videotapes” (Feldman 166). There has been much research focused on parental reliance on educational videotapes and other media. Bauerlein proceeds to indicate, “But the 1,000+ subjects in the Kaiser study, ranging from six months to six years old, went well beyond that. They averaged fully one hour and 58 minutes per day on screen media” (Bauerlein 75). Similar to cell phone usage, children are viewing excessive amounts of television and research strongly suggests that there are possible negative cognitive consequences. In many cases, this is the beginning of a child’s misuse of technology and isn’t necessarily his or her own fault. The group of scientists in remote Utah would agree that this finding is alarming because they themselves live the effects television and other technology has and it can be inferred through their observations and the American Academy of Pediatrics that technological distractions would be more harmful for younger children.
With technology becoming increasingly important and demanding as time progresses, it will continue to have the same effects that scientists, researchers, and concerned citizens are indicating and finding in studies. Unlike teenagers today, younger children are growing up only knowing cell phones while many will never have a landline telephone in their home again. This reality is similar for computers in homes as well. Technology has and will continue to impose itself in the lives’ of young Americans leading to its misuse and abuse and only worsening as a distraction. Tony Smith concludes his article with a more personal note that questions the technological future of society, “I can hardly imagine what’s in store for the next generation. The generation gap is always increasing; someday iPhones will seem archaic, the internet will be old news and even GenYNot, at over 10 megs per second, our lightening-like live-fast-die-young only-if-it’s-for-the-benefit-of-myself generation will be slow and un-hip” (Smith, Tony). With extensive research and findings, it is difficult to suggest that modern-day technology isn’t a distraction for American youth. Only time will portray the impact these distractions will have had on Generation Y.
Rhetorical Commentary
The purpose of my essay is to convincingly portray that technology is becoming a major distraction to young Americans through its misuse and outright abuse. I chose this topic because throughout my life I have seen the progression of technology and how it affects many in my life, most importantly my friends. Americans born in the early 1990’s are the first to experience such widespread usage of modern-day technology and few fully understand the implications it currently has and will continue to have throughout their lives.
This essay is aimed towards an audience of anyone who is interested in the effects modern-day technology is having on today’s youth. I chose sources that are currently available to the public online, a novel that is currently a national bestseller, and a college level psychology textbook. These sources relate to my audience because most are readily available and have the potential for further research by the reader.
As I began research for this topic I quickly noticed a connection between this essay and my Developmental Psychology class. We recently completed a chapter on infants’ cognitive development and in that chapter contains an article explaining popular cognitive enhancing video programs in relation to any beneficial elements they may have for infants. After reading The Dumbest Generation and many other articles on this topic, I began to see a connection. The article in my psychology textbook reads, “research shows that very young children learn better from live demonstrations than they do from videotapes” (Feldman 166). I began noticing a common criticism that technology is benefiting today’s youth in some ways but making them ‘dumb’ at the same time.
I began realizing how technology affects my life and especially my peers and how much of a distraction it truly is and that many, including myself, misuse technology to the point that we abuse the great opportunities it provides. I am guilty of Tony Smith’s question, “Can you walk for two minutes without seeing a fellow student listening to an iPod or chatting/”txtin” on a cell phone?” (Smith, Tony). I am that fellow student that is commonly texting on my cell phone and occasionally chatting.
As I read more articles and gained a more open mind to this topic, I began to connect many of these assumptions to my own life which has made me strive to portray it to those who are interested in the effects modern-day technology is having on youth. By being a primary source, I have had the opportunity to mix adults’ criticisms of youth and technology with my own experiences. With this in mind, my goals in this essay were to help others open their minds to effects modern-day technology is having on today’s youth. I feel that I have accomplished this goal because I myself have gained a better insight to this topic. It isn’t a topic I felt strong writing about but after completing it I feel that I have opened my mind to my generation’s use of technology. Before immersing myself into this topic I was very hesitant and resistant to even accept Bauerlein’s or many other author’s arguments about the effects modern-day technology is currently having.
In conclusion, I believe my essay has much more room for improvement as well as deeper and further analysis on this broad topic. This essay merely ‘scratches the surface’ and needs to be taken further to completely prove any point. Although there is strong support for this topic, it is still a theory because there are many researchers and observers that are skeptical to the claim that modern-day technology is a distraction to American youth.
Works Cited
Bauerlein, Mark. The Dumbest Generation. New York: Penguin, 2009. Print.
“Digital Overload: Your Brain on Gadgets.” Npr.org. National Public Radio, 24 August 2010. Web. 23 Sept. 2010.
Feldman, Robert S. Development Across the Lifespan. 5th ed. Upper Saddle River: Pearson Education, 2008. Print.
Smith, Tony. “GenYNot: Take the iThoreau Challenge.” WKUHerald.com. The Herald, 15 Nov. 2007. Web. 23 Sept. 2010.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
A Railroad Man's Prayer
"A Railroad Man's Prayer An old railroad employee was confronted at a meeting and was asked to lead in prayer. He hesitated a moment then with a trembling but clear, resounding voice said reverently: "O, Lord, now that I have flagged Thee, lift up my feet from the rough road of life and plant them safely on the deck of the train of salvation. Let me use the safety lamp known as prudence and all the couplings in the train with the strong arm of love; and let my hand lamp be the Bible. And, Heavenly Father, keep all switches closed that lead off on the sidings, especially those with a blind end. O, Lord, if it be Thy pleasure, have every semaphore signal along the line show a white light of hope that I may make the run of life without stopping, And, Lord give us the Ten Commandments for the schedule; and when I have finished on schedule time and pulled into the dark station of death, may the Superintendent of the Universe say: 'Well done, thou good and faithful servant, come and sign the pay roll and receive your check for eternal happiness."
This is not my work. A railroad friend of mine posted this on his myspace page and I found it very interesting so I thought I would share it on here.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Keeping Things Updated
Finally the weekend has come! I thought I would share some photographs I have recently taken. They really show how the leaves have fallen and winter is on its way. I am hoping to post some work tomorrow or Sunday because my goal is to have 100+ words of my extended essay completed before Monday. I keep getting disgusted with the way I start it but I'm going to sit down at the library and do work. Well here are the pictures.
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