Final Blog Post

My Relationship with Technology

    

In today's world, technology seeps into every crevice of our lives. For me, it acts as a mediator between my existence and the world around me. Whether it's how I talk to people, consume media, or just pass the time, the digital wave has changed not only the world but my personal daily routine. As newer generations join our shared reality, it's important to both embrace the potential of tech advancements and acknowledge the downsides they bring.

    The birth of the internet on January 1, 1983, marked a pivotal moment in human history. This interconnected web altered how we access information, opening doors to learning, entertainment, and relationships. While older people might reminisce about MySpace, the older social media platform, the real pioneer was Six Degrees, starting back in 1997. It laid the groundwork for successors like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, reshaping how we socialize and define ourselves.

    Yet, alongside the perks, there are risks we often overlook. When we download apps, we often grant permissions without fully grasping their implications for our privacy. My early days on Instagram in middle school are a prime example. I was so focused on fitting in that I didn't realize the extent of the data I was sharing.
  

 Media shapes us more than we realize. Digital spaces can become addictive, altering how we see ourselves and the world. Social media, especially, is a mixed bag. While it offers connections and information, it can also lead to addiction. Algorithms are designed to keep us hooked, feeding our desire for validation with likes and comments. This constant exposure to others' seemingly perfect lives can distort our sense of reality, especially for younger folks still figuring out who they are.
 

   Looking back at my early teenage years, I see how deeply I was immersed in the online world. It felt necessary to be part of every trend, even if it meant risking my health. The pressure to fit in led to dangerous challenges like the Tide Pods craze, with serious consequences for many. And the toll on mental health was undeniable, with rates of depression and anxiety soaring among my peers.
  

 But it's not all doom and gloom. Technology proved its worth during the pandemic, keeping us connected when physical distance was necessary. It democratizes information and fuels innovation, offering endless possibilities for growth—if we use it wisely. That means finding balance, knowing when to unplug and prioritize real-life interactions.
  

 As we navigate this complex relationship with technology, I aim to be a responsible user, mindful of its impact on my well-being and the world around me. It's a journey of discovery, filled with both challenges and opportunities. And as we move forward, let's strive for a healthier, more connected future.

  The one concept I understood during the presentations is most people in the classroom had about the same experiences that I had when it comes to technology. It was also interesting to see other perspectives on how they dealt with their "addictions" and what came of it. 

Blog Post 8

 Online Influencers

In today's digital age, political influencers wield considerable power over public opinion and policy making. I recognize both the positive and negative impacts these influencers can have on society. While they can amplify voices, raise awareness, and promote civic engagement, they also risk perpetuating misinformation, polarization, and undermining democratic processes.

On the positive side, political influencers serve as catalysts for change by amplifying marginalized voices and advocating for social justice causes. Through their platforms, they shed light on pressing issues such as climate change, racial inequality, and human rights abuses, sparking public discourse and mobilizing communities to action. For instance, influencers like Greta Thunberg have galvanized global attention towards environmental sustainability, inspiring millions to participate in climate strikes and demand policy reforms.

Furthermore, political influencers play a vital role in increasing civic engagement, especially among young people. By leveraging social media and digital tools, they make politics more accessible and relatable to the youth, encouraging them to participate in elections, protests, and grassroots movements. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become arenas for political discourse, where influencers share educational content, debunk myths, and encourage voter registration. This heightened engagement fosters a more informed and empowered citizenry, essential for the health of any democracy.

However, alongside these positive impacts, political influencers also wield the power to spread misinformation and exacerbate societal divisions. In an era of echo chambers and filter bubbles, individuals are often exposed to biased information that reinforces their existing beliefs, leading to polarization and tribalism. Influencers, knowingly or unknowingly, contribute to this phenomenon by disseminating sensationalized or misleading content to cater to their audience's preferences, rather than promoting balanced and evidence-based discourse.

Moreover, the rise of influencer culture has blurred the lines between entertainment and politics, commodifying social issues for personal gain. Some influencers prioritize sensationalism over substance, using clickbait tactics and provocative rhetoric to garner attention and increase their following. This sensationalism not only trivializes complex political issues but also distracts from genuine advocacy efforts, undermining the credibility of the broader activist community.

Additionally, the unchecked influence of political influencers can undermine democratic processes and institutions. When influencers prioritize partisanship over impartiality, they risk eroding public trust in the media and electoral systems. Instances of influencer-driven misinformation campaigns, such as spreading false election narratives or conspiracy theories, can sow seeds of doubt and division, ultimately undermining the legitimacy of democratic governance.

In conclusion, I recognize the dual nature of political influencers. While they have the potential to drive positive change and foster civic engagement, they also pose risks to democratic values and cohesion in our society. As consumers of digital content, it is crucial for us to critically evaluate the information we encounter, scrutinize the motives of influencers, and advocate for transparent and responsible communication practices. Only by holding political influencers accountable can we harness their potential for good while mitigating their negative impacts on society.

Blog Post 6

Antiwar in America 

    When we were in school in America, we often heard about what the U.S. troops were up to overseas in our history classes. They never really talked about us being "at war" with other countries, but more like our troops were fighting to protect American freedom. None of my teachers ever said anything negative about our troop movements or actions. Instead, they said that international conflicts brought jobs and industry to Americans so we could make the stuff needed for battle. This idea stuck with our teachers when they were kids and then got passed down to us, even though it's not entirely true. It all goes back to the government being interested in war for a long time.

     

    When the U.S. government says they're at war with another country or group anywhere in the world, they get a lot more power than what the founding fathers had in mind for each branch of government. During wartime, the President can send troops without needing Congress's OK, thanks to the War Powers Resolution. This means the government can do more surveillance, both at home and overseas. Agencies like the NSA, FBI, and CIA can spy on threats and gather info with fewer rules. But a lot of people see this as the government sneaking into our privacy and getting into stuff that's none of their business. War powers even let the government mess with our basic rights, like freedom of speech, the press, and assembly. They can keep an eye on and control groups they think might be a threat to international security. Just these three powers alone give the government a big peek into our lives. These extra powers help the government do its job and stop sneaky political stuff from happening without them knowing. 

   When we watch or read the news, they talk a lot about wars in America, but they hardly ever talk about all the people who are against them or the bad stuff that comes with them. I recently found out about websites like ANTIWAR.COM and The American Conservative (TAC), and it's no surprise I hadn't heard of them before. Even when I searched "stop war" on Google, those sites didn't show up until way later in the search results because of how Google ranks stuff. The writers on those sites have really different views from what we usually hear from both sides of politics. They see war as a really bad thing, almost like legal murder that starts a recession. And they say they're talking about what's best for America, not just what helps one political party. That kind of talk can scare American politicians who often do stuff that's more about helping their party and their candidate than what's actually good for the country.

Blog Post 7

Internet Privacy

    The internet can be a scary place. People always say that once you put something online, it's there forever even if you delete it. Nowadays, even if you try to refrain from using social media or keep your info private online, you still leave a digital trail. Just walking around outside can create a digital footprint thanks to facial recognition software. Along with photos, your digital footprint is created by using your credit score, Wikipedia searches, or even your Yelp reviews. Basically, everything we do online gets tracked, and companies can buy and analyze that data. Unless we no longer use the internet, hide from every camera, and only use cash, we're always going to be monitored through our digital footprints.

   The tech in our U.S. cities is seriously top notch. It can follow our every move, figure out what we're up to, and even guess where we're headed next. It's like something out of a spy movie happening in our own backyards. Take automatic license plate readers, for example, are meant to catch the criminals - those with outstanding warrants.  Those same devices are also watching regular folks. You might find yourself on a watch list just because of where you go or what you do, even if you're not doing anything wrong.

    Simply carrying our cell phones means we're sort of being stalked. Whenever our phones connect with cell towers, there is a map of where we've been. Though a purpose may be served, you have to wonder the reason law enforcement needs to know everyone's whereabouts at all times. We're supposed to have freedom in America, but if you're always being spied on, it feels like that freedom isn't so free after all.

    If we change how we browse the internet just a little, we can get more privacy online. Let's chat about cookies. You know, those tiny things that websites ask about letting in? They're bits of info sent from your device to the website's server when you visit. They claim it's to improve your browsing, but it's really a sneaky way for companies to spy on what you're up to online and make a profile of you based on what you like and do. Saying no to cookies can help boost our digital privacy a bit.

Blog Post 9

 Is AI Evil?

   Throughout history, thinkers guessed that humans would keep getting better and smarter and continue to make materials that would create an easier life. Over the years, we've had all kinds of amazing tools like vacuums, typewriters, and iPhones that were supposed to make life more easy. People thought AI would be another cool thing to help us out, but it's causing some unexpected problems. AI has already replaced some basic jobs, and many worry this trend will continue, making it hard for people with limited educational backgrounds to find work.

    Furthermore, the traditional belief that inventions are solely meant to grant us additional leisure time has been challenged by the emergence of Artificial Intelligence. Rather than facilitating human creativity and expression, AI has transformed into a readily accessible provider of instant art, significantly impacting the livelihoods of genuine human artists. Additionally, AI generates art by appropriating the works of artists, analyzing their styles, and replicating them without acknowledgement. This unethical practice not only undermines the original creators but also fails to credit the human sources that serve as inspiration for its creations.

    A good example from the media is a game called Detroit: Become Human. The game involves AI taking over the jobs of normal people. The masses are divided between keeping the androids because they are making their lives better and the people who are upset about the androids taking their jobs. This leads to the androids rebelling against the humans to protect themselves from those who endorse violence on them. I feel as if this is a somewhat accurate representation of what the future could hold if AI keeps continues in the direction is it going.

  

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is going to have a big impact, but it's not all good news. While AI can do simple tasks, it's still new and not always reliable. Plus, there's a dark side—AI has been using writers work without permission and not giving them credit. And it's not just about art; some people are worried that AI will make job inequality worse. If it only takes easy jobs, what about folks who can't afford to go to college? Will AI just make the rich even richer? We'll have to wait and see how it all pans out.

Blog Post 3

The Eight Values of Free Expression

    The eight values of expression are the marketplace of ideas, participation in self-government, stable change, individual self-fulfillment, check on governmental power, promotion of tolerance, promotion of innovation, and protection of dissent.  Of those eight values, promotion of innovation is the one that is most interesting to me.  The freedom of speech, which as we know is one of the principles found in the First Amendment, has 8 core values of free expression. The marketplace of ideas is this observation that John Milton had considering if the truth and lies where to be freely grappled (engaged in a close fight), than the truth would always win. This peaks my interest because we know God's principles that can be found in the bible are the truth. Milton is saying that the truth will always defeat the lies that might be formed by the world. 

    The participation in self-government explains how we, the people of the United States, use the opinions of those in influential positions to make informed decisions. Most citizens believe they should be allowed to speak their mind with little to no interference from government.  One of the purposes of the participation in self-government value is the protection of all kinds of speech and opnions to properly inform elections.  In the monumental Bradenburg v Ohio case (1969)  the Supreme Court ruled that a Ku Klux Klansmen's speech was inflammatory and provoking violence.  Having protections like self-government can regulate some of these actions.  Alexander Meiklejohn explained how free speech and its relation to self government is absolutely vital. Stable change is the practice of allowing citizens to speak freely to keep them in a more peaceful state. This allows people to not store things up and out of an impulsive decision, act in a manner of violence. This goes hand in hand with our first amendment right for the people to peaceably assemble. The ability to possess individual self-fulfillment is the action in which we are able to have our own identities where we can live by specific principles that make us who we are. 

    Moving on to the 5th value of free expression, the ability to check on government power. It is not our right, but our duty as U.S. citizens to be a part of the checks-and-balance system to keep the government from becoming too powerful. Along with the press, citizens do not want any form of dictatorship, that is why this is a free country. 

    Promoting tolerance goes hand in hand with how the first amendment now protects hate speech because our nation has the ability to grow through painful situations especially regarding the relationships around us. Promoting tolerance regarding hate speech helps us become more accepting of others regardless of their life choices, which means we are growing as a nation. The 7th value of expression is the promotion of innovation. This value envisions the idea that if we are a nation that practices the freedom of speech, then we will more likely to be free enough to come up with new ideas and receive more energy and self motivation to be innovative. 

    Protect dissent is the last value of expression which explains how we have not the right, but the duty to criticize and disagree with the government. This shows that the government wants all citizens to experience freedom unlike any other nation, and actually encourages us to do quite the opposite of other countries that possess a dictating government. 

    I believe that the 8 values of free expression are very important because they highlight the  meaning of the first amendment. Marketplace of ideas seems to be the most import value to me because people can take advantage of freedom when they start re-identifying what the truth is. The truth will always rise to the top and it is hard to determine where we draw the line.  There will always be truths and falsehoods to figure out in our country.

Blog Post 2

History of the United States Supreme Court

    

    My prior knowledge about the United States Supreme Court is limited; but after researching, I feel equipped to have a conversation about its history and purpose.  This video and other resources expanded my knowledge base a great deal. I gained a lot of new structured information about the responsibilities of the Supreme Court and the different roles to make sure the justice system is effective.  The US Supreme Court is the highest court in the federal judiciary and was led by Caucasian men for years until the historic moment when Thurgood Marshall was confirmed as the first Black person to serve on the Supreme Court in August of 1967.

    One the main points of interest for me was learning about the multiple roles of the Chief Justice. There have only been 17 Chief Justices since 1789 compared to One of those duties includes serving  being on the Board of Regents, and to preside over trials if a President is threatened to be impeached. The longest serving Chief Justice is Chief Justice William Douglas, who served for 36 years.  Usually, their terms last about 13 - 15 years.  This person is also responsible for administering the Oath of Office to the President of the United States.The Chief Justice holds a great deal of power in this position including addressing budgeting concerns and leading the federal judicial branch.

    I believe one of the important points of interest I learned about the US Supreme Court is the amount of responsibility that those who serve have taken on for years. They perform a great deal of their work behind closed doors and meet weekly to make sure the laws are upheld. Sometimes, being a public servant is a job that is overlooked and can be exhausting.  Those who serve are passionate about their work and the idea of serving all citizens. 

    The most surprising thing I learned from this research is that there has been little change since its inception. Once this body was established in 1798, there has been little change regarding how they operate. To think that nothing has really changed in over 100 years ago is astonishing to me. I also think it is interesting that this judicial branch has been in existence for so long and has benefited the American government, in general.  Due to all of the decisions that must be made related to laws and different opinions and values, one would think there would be more division. 

    After completing research, I can appreciate what the United State Supreme Court does and its significance in our lives. There is a level of respect that is given to those who serve and have served on this judicial body because the decisions they render allow us to use our constitutional rights.  The US Supreme Court maintains order and has systems in place so American citizens rights are protected.  This governing body is expected to uphold the law above EVERYTHING.

Five Personal Sources Of News

When I was younger, my parents always told me to watch the news along with them. I always thought there were other ways of finding out whats going on in the world besides watching it live on tv, So I took to other methods. My knowledge on sources has expanded since then, as I have found multiple news sources that people like me use every day. 

Twitter/X

Every two days or so, I open twitter to see what is happening in the world. I believe it is a great way to keep up with current news whether it be politics, drama with celebrities, and so on. I enjoy using this because not only is it a news source, but it is also a place where I can see other opinions on topics such as those I already named. Although it is a helpful source, it is sometimes unreliable to trust whether the news is correct or not. With the amount of updates being added to twitter nowadays, it is easy to spot when somebody is spreading fake news/information. 

TikTok

TikTok is known for being a source of entertainment, however it still holds power to spread information about the world. Whether that information is true or not feels like a gamble, since it seems as if everyone likes to spread false information nowadays. I think one of the most unique parts of TikTok is how anyone can make an account and become a content creator. Although this is also a great source, it also has loads of misinformation on the website as well, and unlike twitter, you can't go to an article on the app to check if it's true or not.