My Proposal
Chaya Leverton on Nov 9th 2012
I want to explore how advanced technology makes us more dependent on each other and less self-sufficient than we used to be, forcing our society to become more collaborative and inter-connected. I plan to describe how advanced technology and its complexity requires us to rely on one other and work together to produce it. I will use examples of older methods vs. modern day methods to show how new technology is more complex and specialized, and thus requires dependence on others and collaboration. Ultimately, I will argue that these individual and societal changes brought about by technological advancements are ultimately good because they enable- and even force- us to become a collective, collaborative society that is conducive to even further advancements. I think this is a good topic for this assignment because it explores the issue of the digital age and its affects on individuals and society. Also, my topic uses “The Shallows” as jumping-off point; I plan on using Carr’s discussion of neuroplasticity to explain how technological changes affect us and become deeply-rooted into our behavior.
I imagine my thesis to be something along these lines: increased dependence on technology, which results in increased dependence others and less self-sufficiency, ultimately benefits us because it forces us to become a more inter-connected, collaborative, and cooperative society.
I imagine my paper to begin with my thesis and continue with a brief explanation of how technology becomes more complex as it progresses and how that affects our independence. I plan on using an example (possibly transportation) to compare and contrast how things used to be and how they are now, showing that now we are less independent. I imagine I will use Carr’s book to show how this increased dependency imprints itself on society and becomes part of our way of life (neuroplasticity, brain changes). I also plan on using Amber Case and McLuhan to support my claim that technology is connecting us as a society. Finally, I will present a counter-argument and conclude.
This is just the beginning, so I’m sure there will be some changes and adjustments along the way.
Filed in Uncategorized | 3 responses so far
I think the trajectory you plan to take is very well thought out and organized. I think comparing the previous decades with today will be an effective way to make your point.
I also think your thesis is important. You make a fresh point, about how the interdependency forces people to collaborate, and I think that it is a good way to conclude your paper.
Cant wait to see what you come up with!
Wow, Chaya, you REALLY thought this one through! The topic is indeed thought provoking and you can really go any which way with this topic. But your chosen methods of proving your thesis are brilliant and well chosen. I’ll be waiting for your draft!
It’s interesting, I was kind of expecting you to say that increased dependence on technology ultimately harms us but you’re going the opposite route. Like Nomi said, it’s definitely a fresh point. I can’t wait to see the way you craft this argument — particularly the counterargument that you’re planning on for the conclusion.