EOTO2: What I Learned

I found Maggie's presentation on citizen journalism to be the most interesting. Her confidence and conciseness on the topic displayed her deep understanding. I also enjoyed how she implemented videos into her presentation, as I found the videos extremely interesting and insightful. It was incredible to see footage of the JFK assassination from a different angle, taken by a citizen. I also learned that citizen journalism can assist in police investigations and court cases, which I found very interesting. 

Another new thing I learned is the term echo chambers. Johnathon discussed echo chambers, which can be defined as tailored media experiences that eliminate opposing viewpoints and differing voices. I stumbled across this term while researching for my presentation, but Johnathon gave me a deeper understanding of this idea. I find that echo chambers are extremely common. Most people these days obtain their news from social media platforms. A major flaw is that these app algorithms are programmed to show related posts to those you have liked. For example, if you like a post favoring one political party, your entire feed will shift to people who align with those values. This can be extremely harmful because people don't see other viewpoints that differ from theirs, creating the echo chamber effect and possibly spreading misinformation. 

I also found the presentation on deepfakes to be deeply unsettling and scary. While deepfakes are illegal, this hasn't stopped people from creating and sharing them. This can cause harm by creating mistrust in the media, making people unable to differentiate between real and fake. It is terrifying to think that deepfakes could be made of me or my friends and family that could potentially ruin our lives. 

The presenter also did an excellent job speaking on this topic. He provided fascinating examples and videos of deepfakes and smooth transitions. His presentation was very well thought out and planned, and he was highly articulate.

Overall, these three presentations were my personal favorites. They were both entertaining and insightful. 

EOTO2: Mainstream Media

What is Mainstream Media?

Mainstream media refers to where most Americans access their news. It typically consists of traditional broadcasting or publishing outlets like NBC, CNN, Fox News, and others. Until the early 2000s, mainstream media primarily referred to local newspapers and TV stations. The media landscape has become more complex since then, broadening to video, radio, podcasts, and social media. It could be argued that nowadays, social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc, are also part of mainstream media. Although these platforms are not traditional news organizations, many people across the country rely on them as their news sources.

The Implications of Mainstream Media & its Impact on Society 

There are both positive and negative implications. The biggest concern of traditional mainstream media is the presence of bias in popular networks. Bias can influence viewers and shape their perception and interpretation of news. The positive side is that bias can create a shared sense of beliefs and community among viewers, while the downside is that it can also foster conflict and division. For instance, the coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic revealed significant differences in how media outlets were portraying public health measures, such as mask mandates and vaccinations. Another example is the reporting on social justice movements in 2020, which varied widely across networks and social media. This resulted in debates, misunderstandings, and even protests.

Even though social media democratized access to information, it also has significant implications. These apps' algorithms prioritize content that engages their viewers, which may cause people to only be exposed to perspectives that align with their own. This can fuel misinformation, as extreme viewpoints often receive the most attention. 

On the other hand, mainstream and social media have also provided platforms and offered new opportunities to spread awareness and make change. Movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter gained global attention because of their popularity on social media. This demonstrates the potential for positive societal impact when used effectively.

Mainstream media, including both traditional news sources and social media, heavily impact our society. Our media shapes how we interpret events, form opinions, and even interact with one another. Traditional media still holds the most trust for some, but its reach is increasingly challenged by the rapid growth of social media. This can have both benefits and drawbacks; people may now have access to more information and different perspectives, but the divided nature of media consumption often leads to division. 

Effects Across Different Segments 

The impact of mainstream and social media may vary significantly across different population segments. For example, older generations rely on traditional media, while younger audiences gravitate toward social media for quick, visually engaging updates. This generational divide influences how events are understood and discussed. It could also be argued that traditional media caters to wealthier audiences with stories that reflect their interests, particularly in business and economic reporting. It is also true that traditional media tends to underrepresent minority voices. In contrast, social media has become a powerful way for minorities to share their perspectives and advocate for inclusivity.

Personal Reflections

Mainstream media shapes my opinions and how I perceive the world. I’ve learned to question biases and seek multiple perspectives to do my best to form well-rounded opinions. Social media is what I mostly use to access news, but it may be harmful as it can expose me to misinformation and polarized content. As for my family, traditional mainstream media has more influence on them. Older relatives often rely on TV news, which sometimes can clash with the narratives I may encounter online. This dynamic has sparked many meaningful conversations and helped me to understand how media consumption shapes our worldviews. Overall, I believe that by engaging with both traditional and social media, we can better educate ourselves on the world. 

Privacy in the Digital Age

After watching TED talks about privacy, I was disturbed by the information I learned. I have realized that the government intrudes on our privacy in various ways, which makes me highly uncomfortable. What bothered me the most was the fact the government has massive quantities of data that are very likely to contain images of my license plate and car, as well as information on where I have been recently and who I have been with. This is a massive invasion of people's privacy, and I believe the government has a responsibility to prioritize citizens' safety and privacy. 

How Do These Issues Affect Me and My Loved Ones?

Knowing that the government or corporations can track anyone's location, listen to their conversations, and monitor their online behavior is unsettling to me. What would happen if my car or phone data fell into the wrong hands? My family and friends could be targeted simply because they match a profile or are misinterpreted. Knowing the government can access detailed surveillance data undermines my trust in institutions that are supposed to be there to protect me. For example, my friends or family could be concerned about attending protests due to fears of being added to a "watch list." The fourth TED talk I watched brought up the devastating effects of having intimate moments shared without consent. This is especially relevant to my generation and friends, who may share personal content digitally. It’s a real threat to mental health and also personal safety.

How Should the Government Take Action?

In my opinion, the government should enforce stricter regulations limiting data collection, storage, and sharing. I also believe that license plate reader data or protest attendance lists should be deleted after a period of time. The government should also have to disclose what information they are collecting, why, and how that information is being used. Laws against revenge porn should also be stricter. The speaker during the TED talk said fines for revenge porn in our country only average around five hundred dollars, which I find absolutely ridiculous. Victims need a way to have content removed, and offenders should face serious legal consequences. Corporations should also not be legally allowed to access, read, or monetize private communications like emails. Data collected for one purpose, like service improvement, should not be able to be repurposed for advertising or other commercial uses. 

What Can We Do to Protect Ourselves?

To protect ourselves from invasions of privacy, we can adopt proactive habits. For example, we can regularly check device app permissions to ensure that apps can only access necessary data. Additionally, turning off location services, Bluetooth, and unnecessary app permissions when not in use may limit unnecessary data collection. We can also advocate for change, which is equally as important. Consider joining organizations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) that fight for digital privacy rights. We can also petition lawmakers to strengthen privacy regulations and hold corporations accountable for misuse.

EOTO1: What I Learned

The presentation I learned the most from was the history of video games. I found this presentation the most engaging as someone who loves video games. It was fascinating to hear how games have evolved over time. The presenter’s enthusiasm and passion for the topic really stood out to me and made it even more enjoyable.

I learned about one of the first known games, Pong. It was a table tennis simulation that became a commercial hit in the early 1970s, launching the gaming industry. Although it wasn't the first video game, Pong had a much broader impact and is often remembered as the game that popularized video gaming.

I also learned about the significant advancements made with the rise of 3D graphics during the 1990s. This led to classics and some of my favorites, like Super Mario 64 and The Legend of Zelda. During this time, companies like Sony, Sega, and Nintendo dominated the market. 

In the 2000s, gaming became more immersive and accessible with the invention of online multiplayer and mobile gaming. Today, video games are a global phenomenon, influencing culture, art, and technology worldwide.

Living in the Age of AI

PBS Frontline’s documentary In the Age of AI explores how artificial intelligence transforms our world. The documentary shows how AI is already a massive part of our lives, even if we don't realize it. From facial recognition to targeted ads, it explains the good and bad of this technology. Watching this movie made me think about how much AI impacts us and what that might mean for the future. 

What I Learned

One of the most surprising things I learned was how much AI is involved in our daily lives. I was not aware that big companies like Google and Facebook use AI to collect massive amounts of personal data so they can target ads to us to make more money. While this can also make online shopping easier, it also means they know a lot about us, sometimes more than we even realize.

Key Takeaways 

AI has benefits but also risks. While AI can do amazing things, like helping doctors find new treatments or solving environmental problems by analyzing huge amounts of data, it can also be used for harmful things, like tracking people’s movements or invading our privacy. AI allows companies to collect data on everything we do, what we buy, where we go, and even what we say. This can feel like an invasion of privacy, mainly when this data is used to make money or monitor us without our knowledge.

What Surprised and Frightened Me

I was shocked to learn how much control big companies have over AI and the data it collects. These companies hold a lot of power, which can lead to problems like less transparency and the misuse of people's personal information.

I was also very concerned about the job losses; as more jobs are replaced by machines, it's worrying to think about how this could impact families and communities in the long run.

Privacy: Pros and Cons

One of the biggest takeaways from the documentary is how AI affects privacy. On the positive side, AI can make life more convenient. For example, targeted ads can save time by showing us products we might actually want. AI can also help with traffic navigation or finding lost devices by tracking locations.

However, the downside is much worse. Companies and governments gather a lot of personal information about us using AI. The documentary refers to this as surveillance capitalism, which is a significant concern. Everything from what we buy to where we go and even what we say is being recorded. 

On the positive side, AI helps detect and prevent cyberattacks. It can also analyze patterns to predict threats, making national defense systems smarter and faster. AI has also made it easier to improve security by creating stronger encryption systems and detecting fraud. For example, banks use AI to monitor transactions and catch suspicious activity before it becomes a problem. At the same time, AI also makes identity theft more dangerous. Hackers can use AI to create fake profiles or even mimic your loved ones' voices. The amount of personal data and AI’s ability to use it can make it easier for cybercriminals to target individuals.

EOTO1: The History and Impact of Television

The invention of the Television has greatly impacted our society. Television has changed the way we communicate and perceive the world around us. Television started as an experimental idea in the early 20th century and has become one of the most influential technologies in history. Americans today dedicate a large portion of their time to consuming television. According to recent data, it is said that U.S. viewers aged 15 years and older spent an average of almost three hours watching TV per day in 2023, while adults aged 65 and above spent the most time watching television at over four hours a day. So, how exactly did Television come to be?

History: From Concept to a Cultural Revolution

The idea of transmitting images over long distances first emerged in the late 1800s. However, it wasn’t until the 1920s that inventors like John Logie Baird and Philo Farnsworth made significant breakthroughs in this technology. A Scottish engineer, Baird, achieved one of the first televised images by using a mechanical process that displayed basic outlines and shapes. Years later, an American inventor, Farnsworth, invented an electronic system that allowed for much more precise and stable images. This laid the foundation for the Television that we see today. 

In 1939, RCA, also known as the Radio Corporation of America, debuted the first TV at the World's Fair in New York. People were amazed by the concept of television, but due to World War II and economic challenges, television did not become very popular. Wartime production only focused on radios and other communication tools, but as the economy improved in the post-war years, television sets became more affordable and widely available. By the 1950s, Television was in households nationwide, and networks like NBC, CBS, and ABC began to create content. 

Impact: Bringing the World into Our Living Rooms

Television quickly became much more than just a form of entertainment; it changed how people consumed news, stories, and ideas. In the 1950s, shows like I Love Lucy and The Ed Sullivan Show were extremely popular, bringing a sense of shared experience to households and nationwide. For the first time in history, people could see world events happening live without having to be there. People could view everything, from the moon landing to presidential debates.

Television had a significant impact on public opinion and social awareness. For example, during the 1960s, events like the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War were broadcast into people's homes, exposing viewers to issues they may not have experienced or wouldn’t have witnessed. These images of protests, marches, and war scenes sparked discussions and debates that would influence public opinion. This, in turn, made Television powerful for social change. 

The Downsides of Television's Influence

Although Television was becoming increasingly popular, there were also concerns. It was argued that TV might encourage unhealthy habits because people could spend hours watching without actually engaging in what they were viewing. Studies were done on television's impact on children due to concerns about how excessive screen time may affect their learning, behavior, or social skills. 

Despite these concerns, television continues to expand and evolve. In the 1970s, color TV became widely available. By the 1980s and 1990s, cable television expanded by offering hundreds of channels. Shows and networks now cater to everyone's interests.

Television in the Digital Age

In the 21st century, streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ have become extremely popular. While traditional broadcast TV still exists, most people now prefer these platforms to watch TV because they allow them to binge-watch or pause a show anytime. According to Nielsen’s The Gauge, TV viewing using streaming services in the United States has reached 40.3% of all TV usage, while cable and broadcast are around 27.2% and 20.5%.

In conclusion, Television has significantly influenced how we connect, learn, and experience the world. From its early days as an experimental invention to digital streaming, it has evolved, and so have we alongside it. While it may have its downsides, it continues to have an essential role in bringing people closer to history and culture.

For a deeper look into the history and evolution of Television, check out this article on television history.

Eight Values of Free Expression

Our constitution will forever be vital to our nation and democracy. This document established and ensured our rights, including the freedom of speech, press, and assembly. In class, we’ve discussed how these freedoms came to be. The ideas of Jefferson and Madison paved the way for theories like the Marketplace of Ideas. The Eight Values of Free Expression provide us with an understanding of why these rights are so impactful to us. Reflecting on these values, I find Individual Self-Fulfillment and Self-Government to be the most meaningful. I also believe that the Marketplace of Ideas connects to today’s challenges.

Individual Self-Fulfillment emphasizes the freedom to be true to ourselves and pursue our passions. This value is about finding one’s purpose and aligning one’s life with one’s beliefs. In today’s digital world, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have created new opportunities for self-expression. People now use these platforms to share stories, skills, hobbies, and talents. This has enabled individuals to develop entire careers and build massive platforms by doing what they love.

Self-government is the idea that freedom of speech is essential because it allows citizens to debate and challenge government actions. This value ensures that the government remains accountable. The Black Lives Matter movement is an excellent example of this value. Social media allowed millions to unite over shared goals. It can also be used to demand change from government institutions. Without the ability to freely discuss these issues, movements like this may not have achieved the momentum needed to bring about real change. Self-governance demonstrates that freedom of expression is not just a personal right but also can be very powerful in shaping society.

The Marketplace of Ideas is linked to both of the previous ideas, as it supports the concept that truths may emerge when different perspectives can be freely exchanged. Social media embodies this concept by giving people from all backgrounds a platform to share their thoughts. However, the digital era also presents difficulties for this idea. Misinformation can spread quickly, confusing or misinforming people about essential topics like public policy, elections, and health. For example, false claims on platforms like Twitter or Facebook during election cycles can shape people’s opinions and even influence the outcomes.

So, how do we balance free speech with the need to prevent harm? What responsibilities do platforms have in moderating content while respecting individual rights? It’s incredibly important to balance protecting free speech and ensuring accountability. Platforms must take action to reduce harm, but they should also maintain the diversity of viewpoints while also being transparent about their policies. The Marketplace of Ideas serves as a reminder that the free exchange of ideas is essential, but it must be accompanied by careful consideration of the potential consequences.

Ultimately, the Eight Values of Free Expression are more than concepts. They’re vital to a fair and just society. By upholding these ideals, we strive for a country where everyone has the chance to use their voice. These concepts remind us of the strength of our voices, not only to tell our own stories but also to listen to others and work together to create a better future.

For a deeper look into these ideas, click here to learn about John Milton and C. Edwin Baker