AntiWar-American Conservative

As the U.S. continues its military operations around the world, it’s notable that antiwar voices are largely absent from mainstream media. While platforms like Antiwar.com and The American Conservative offer strong antiwar perspectives, these views are rarely part of the broader public discourse. I have never even heard of these websites. As I explored these new websites I kept these questions in the back of my mind: You've probably never even heard of these websites. I wonder why that is? Why do you think you have to seek out obscure websites in order to hear strong antiwar voices?

A brief exploration of sites like Antiwar uncovers critiques of U.S. military interventions around the world. These platforms challenge American foreign policy; however, they exist largely in mainstream media discourse. This raises an important question: why are these dissenting views not more prominently featured?This is due to the relationships between media organizations, the government, and corporate interests. Major media corporations frequently maintain significant financial and political connections with industries that profit from warfare, such as defense contractors. This dynamic can create a bias that shows alternative perspectives and limits public access to diverse viewpoints.

Exploring diverse media sources, such as The American Conservative, offers the opportunity to engage with viewpoints that may not be represented on mainstream local news channels. The way opposing views are addressed, particularly during times of conflict, underscores the importance of safeguarding free expression. This highlights the importance of the First Amendment, which ensures that a variety of perspectives can be shown as valuable, giving a strong democracy where differing opinions are protected.

With mainstream media and smaller, minority-focused opinion websites primarily resides in the controversy of the content they present. Mainstream outlets tend to align with particular political ideologies, which can constrain the variety of viewpoints available to the audience. Journalists at these larger organizations may hesitate to publish articles critical of the government due to the potential loss of access to essential sources and information. On the other hand, independent media platforms often face fewer limitations and are able to offer more direct, alternative perspectives that question prevailing narratives and spark meaningful discussions.

Overall, the lack of antiwar voices in mainstream media highlights a significant gap in discourse about U.S. military operations. While platforms like Antiwar.com and The American Conservative offer crucial critiques, their insignificance raises questions about media representation. Mainstream outlets often align with specific political views and corporate interests, limiting diverse perspectives. Engaging with different media sources is essential for promoting free expression and ensuring a healthy democracy, enabling citizens to critically assess military interventions and advocate for peaceful international relations.

Diffusion of Innovation Theory

 

Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Theory explains how new ideas, products, or technologies spread through populations over time, highlighting the different rates of adoption among different groups. According to Rogers, society can be divided into five categories based on their willingness to adopt innovations:

1. Innovators: These are the risk-takers and pioneers, representing a small portion of the population, they are the first to embrace new ideas or technologies. They are often highly educated and socially connected, driving early adoption.

2. Early Adopters: Following closely behind, early adopters are influential opinion leaders who recognize the value of an innovation early on. Their endorsement often plays a key role in encouraging greater acceptance.

3. Early Majority: This group is more cautious but adopts new ideas once they see proven benefits. They wait until an innovation has been tested and refined before embracing it.

4. Late Majority: These individuals are more skeptical and resistant to change, typically adopting only after the innovation has become widely accepted and mainstream.

5. Laggards: The final group to adopt an innovation, laggards are often resistant to change and hold on to traditional methods until the innovation becomes unavoidable.

Understanding these categories helps explain how innovations affect different generations and societal groups, shaping the way of technological and social change.

A prime example is Facebook. The app became popular in 2007 when it hit 50 million users but was originally launched in early 2004. This app attracted the Millennial generation who were the Early Adapters. This age demographic was attracted to this platform because they were the first "young" generation introduced to social media. Since they were in high school and college at the time this was the newest "it" thing to do. The users were eager to get in on the newest trends.

A time went on, members of the Early Majority, particularly Generation X (those born between 1965 and 1980), began to adopt Facebook. Today, this group represents a significant portion of the platform's user base. Many of us have parents, or know parents in this age group, who are active users, frequently posting and engaging with the app. As a result, younger generations often view Facebook as a "parent platform," which has contributed to their shift away from it in favor of newer, trendier social media platforms.

Overall, Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Theory provides a valuable theory for understanding how technologies and ideas spread through society, as shown by Facebook's rise and generational adoption patterns. The platform's initial success with Millennials, who acted as early adopters, set the stage for its broader appeal. As Generation X, the Early Majority, became more interested in the app, Facebook evolved into a mainstream platform. However, this generational shift also led younger users to move away from the app, viewing it as dominated by older users. This pattern highlights how different social groups embrace innovations at various stages, influencing the lifecycle of technology and its cultural relevance over time.

Overton Window

 The Overton Window is a model used to understand how ideas in society shift over time, influencing both public opinion and political action. The core concept is that politicians are constrained by the range of ideas and policies that are currently acceptable to the general public. Politicians typically only pursue policies that fall within this "window" of acceptability, as these are seen as legitimate, mainstream options. Policies outside the Overton Window may exist, but they are considered too radical or unpopular for politicians to support without risking significant backlash or loss of political support. As societal attitudes change, the window itself shifts, allowing previously unthinkable ideas to become viable policy options.

There are six stages in this political theory:

Unthinkable: Ideas that are considered radical or unacceptable.

Radical: Ideas that are starting to gain attention but are still seen as extreme.

Acceptable: Ideas that have become a topic and are discussed more openly.

Sensible: Ideas that are now seen as reasonable and practical

Popular: Ideas that are widely accepted and become part of public conversation.

Policy: Ideas that have become laws or policies.

An example scenario using the overton window would be the idea of same sex marriage

1. Unthinkable (1980s): Same-sex marriage was considered unacceptable, and the idea was rarely discussed in mainstream circles.

2. Radical (1990s): Advocates for LGBTQ+ rights began pushing for marriage equality, though it was still considered a fringe idea by much of the public.

3. Acceptable (early 2000s): Public discussions about same-sex marriage became more frequent, with support slowly growing, particularly among younger generations and progressive circles.

4. Sensible (mid-2000s): As more states and countries began recognizing civil unions or same-sex partnerships, the idea of same-sex marriage started to be seen as practical and achievable. More people viewed it as a matter of fairness and equal rights, even if they didn’t yet fully support it.

5. Popular (early 2010s): The majority of Americans began to support same-sex marriage, and it became a key issue in political debates, with widespread coverage in media and public advocacy.

6. Policy (2015): The U.S. Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, marking its full acceptance within the Overton Window and its transition into law.

   

By using the Overton Window theory it allows politicians to refrain going against what society wants.Even though it doesn’t capture every aspect of political dynamics, it highlights a crucial point: politicians are constrained in their policy choices by their electoral prospects. They typically support policies they believe will not jeopardize their chances of winning votes. The range of policy options available to them is influenced by the prevailing ideas, social movements, and collective norms and values within society.

The Overton Window illustrates how ideas that were once considered radical or extreme can gradually shift toward mainstream acceptance through social change, advocacy, and public discussion. This process demonstrates the fluid nature of societal norms and values, allowing us to understand how controversial or fringe ideas can, over time, move from the sides to the center of political and social conversations, eventually shaping policies and cultural norms. Recognizing this dynamic helps us comprehend the evolution of public opinion and the mechanisms that drive changes in societal discourse and governance.

Typewriter vs. Modern Keyboard

 

I found the comparison between typewriters and modern keyboards extremely interesting. One thing that I found particularly interesting was the modern day keyboard that we use today is the same on that people have been using for years. This shows that even through all the technological advancement through the years the keyboard order is something that has worked and stayed efficient.

By listening to Brooke Sheehy's presentation I gained a lot of insight on the typewriter that I did not know before. The typewriter was something that I have never really thought much about unless it was being shown in a movie or tv show. What I never realized was how this was the start for the modern day computer. We take the easy use of computers for granted every time we go to type something. What we don't think of is how fifty years ago if you wanted something typed you would have had it a lot harder than we do. 

Brooke stated in her presentation how the typewriter has created the advancement in what we use today in the modern world. She explained how the first person to invent the typewriter was Christopher Latham Sholes and his partners Samuel Soule and Carlos Glidden in the middle of the 19th century . She also talks  about how there was a huge social impact with the invention of the typewriter. This allowed for jobs to open especially for women. This gave woman a safer working environment rather than being in factories they sat at desks in offices and were “typists”.

The modern day keyboard is something we all take for granted. We can now have a computer in our hands and send messages to others via the keyboard. We can also type and essay with the keyboard on our phones whenever we want. This shows how far technology has come over the years. Also these older technologies are staples in today's world and have paved the way for new modern day technology.

Comparing Brooke's research to my own on the impact of motion pictures, the one thing that stuck out to me was we both had topics that have revolutionized today's world. With my research discussing the evolution of motion pictures and how a small device started the whole movie industry. Comparing that to Brooke's research hers shows how the typewriter started the evolution of the keyboard that almost everyone in the world uses on the daily.

In conclusion, the comparison between typewriters and modern keyboards highlights how foundational innovations can shape the technology we use today. Despite decades of technological advancements, the basic layout of the keyboard has remained efficient and relevant. Brooke Sheehy's presentation provided valuable insights into the historical significance of the typewriter, to modern computers and as a tool that had a significant social impact, especially in creating jobs for women. Overall, we got to see how little inventions of the past have set the tone for the future.

Age of Artificial Intelligence

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has propelled us into a new era of technology, with the potential to transform industries and reshape our lives. After watching In the Age of AI by FRONTLINE, I was both fascinated by AI's vast possibilities and concerned about the future challenges it will bring.  While AI offers amazing work and features it is hard to put past the scarcity of its strength. As we move forward in this AI-driven world , I believe it can be a positive thing if managed responsibly and ethically.

The concern over AI's potential to invade privacy is significant due to its ability to track personal data, including clicks, purchases, and conversations. This level of surveillance makes individuals' digital lives highly accessible to both governments and corporations. Not only does this affect the person being monitored, but also their friends and family, who might be unaware of the extent of data collection. Living in a world where privacy is continuously compromised by AI could lead to a deeply surveilled society.

Government involvement in AI and privacy raises major concerns due to the vast amount of personal data AI systems can access. Governments can use AI for surveillance, data mining, and predictive policing, which can infringe on citizens' rights to privacy. Mass data collection by governments, combined with AI's ability to analyze and track individuals, could lead to misuse, such as excessive monitoring or targeting of individuals and groups.

The concentration of AI development in a few large tech companies, which control vast amounts of data, raises concerns about the power they hold over personal information and the potential for monopolistic control. This imbalance of power threatens data privacy and increases the risk of misuse. Without proper regulation and a clear understanding of AI's implications, these companies' dominance could lead to severe consequences, including reduced transparency, unfair competition, and compromised privacy for individuals.

The documentary In the Age of AI by FRONTLINE explores both the transformative potential and the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. While AI offers incredible technological advancements, there are growing concerns about privacy, surveillance, and data control. AI systems can track personal information, affecting individuals and their networks, making digital lives accessible to governments and corporations. The concentration of AI development within large tech companies raises concerns about monopolistic control and data privacy. Ethical and responsible management is essential to prevent abuse and protect individual rights.

Today: Do We Have Any Privacy?

 In today’s digital age, our personal information is more vulnerable than ever to various forms of surveillance. After viewing four thought-provoking TED Talks, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the gravity of privacy concerns and the profound impact of our digital footprints.

Digital privacy has become one of the most pressing concerns in the modern age, as the digital landscape continues to expand and move into every aspect of our lives. From social media platforms to online shopping, banking, and even healthcare, our personal information is constantly being collected and shared. While digital services have brought convenience and connectivity, they have also exposed users to potential risks such as data breaches, identity theft, and surveillance.

In his TED Talk, Juan Enriquez discusses the concept of "digital tattoos," referring to the lasting impact our digital activities leave on the internet. These "tattoos" are essentially permanent records of our online actions, which can be difficult or impossible to erase. Enriquez explores the implications of this for privacy, reputation, and how our digital footprints can shape perceptions of us over time.

Christopher Soghoian also discusses how having our location services on are used for ideas of surveillance. Our devices constantly know where we are and the government can track them at any given time. This demonstrates how even though some of these features are called "privacy services" there's nothing private about them. 

These privacy concerns aren't just theoretical, they have real life impacts on us all. Issues like identity theft and unjust surveillance can significantly disrupt lives. To tackle these problems, governments should enforce stronger privacy laws, ensuring greater transparency in data collection and regulating technology surveillance.By understanding these threats and making informed decisions, we can better safeguard our privacy in the digital age.

Evolution and Impact of Motion Pictures

 

Motion Pictures has undergone a huge transformation, growing from the “Zoetrope” to the high definition films we watch today.. Whether you're sitting on the couch or going to the theater. Motion Pictures has become an essential part of the entertainment industry.

In October 19, 1878, “Scientific American” published a series of pictures showing a horse in full gallop, with instructions to view them through the Zoetrope. Zoetrope was created by William Horner, a British mathematician, in 1834. It was the first of its kind. It started the idea of moving pictures, which allowed for inspiration to spark.

In 1891, the Edison Company successfully showcased a prototype of the Kinetoscope, a device that allowed a single person to view moving pictures at a time. The first public Kinetoscope was shown in 1893 then by the next year it was placed in parlors around the world.

Color picture technology, which had been in development since the early 1900s, gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s with films like The Wizard of Oz (1939) and Gone with the Wind (1939). Color added a new dimension to storytelling and allowed for more expressive cinematography.

In the late 1970s, a new era of blockbuster filmmaking emerged, with films like Star Wars (1977), directed by George Lucas. Combining space opera with groundbreaking special effects Star Wars transformed the film industry, launching the blockbuster model and revolutionizing the use of computer-generated imagery. This was followed by the success of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) and Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park (1993), which showcased potential to bring fantastical creatures and environments to life.

The digital revolution,  with the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+, fundamentally reshaped how films are produced. This allowed also for people to watch the films anywhere and anytime without having to go to a theater. Merging technologies, such as virtual reality , augmented reality , and artificial intelligence (AI), are now opening new doors for immersive and interactive storytelling. As filmmakers continue to explore these innovations, the future of motion pictures promises even more groundbreaking experiences, though the art of visual storytelling capturing imagination through moving images remains timeless.