Blog Post #11

     When listening to the other EOTO presentations, something that stood out to me was the "social credit score," a method that is being implemented by other countries around the world. Based on numerous factors, the social credit score would show data and analytics on someone's search history, buying history, and other online trails to make reasonable assumptions on their character, interests, and nature as a person. 

    Though are these "reasonable" assumptions really reasonable?  Through our class's learning of data mining, we learned that social medias make inferences about users based on data and that information can be sold to the government, which can watch and believe random people are potential threats to national security simply based on inferences on their online activity. 

    The "social credit score" would not be so different than assumptions made by artificial intelligence by data mining practices. What is so dangerous about this is the fact that these assumptions are just that: assumptions. Just because there is someone with specific interested that happen to share those with criminals does not mean that person is a criminal. 

    For example, if a terrorist's favorite color is purple and so is mine, that does not make me a terrorist. Though a very general example, the theory in itself is similar to that: incredibly short sighted. The use of the "social credit score" is and will continue to be extremely problematic. Especially if implemented in the United States, it would cause a plethora of negative impacts that could risk causing more chaos than ever in our democracy.

    Furthermore, a social credit score system could also raise concerns about the role of the government in monitoring and controlling individuals' behavior. If implemented, a system such as the social credit score system could lead to the government infringing on the liberties and rights of its citizens and be considered a governmental overreach. 

    While a social credit score system could have some potential benefits on the chance that some assumptions made are accurate, improving social behavior, and encouraging responsibility, it also poses significant risks to people's privacy, individuality, and freedom. Its implementation into a country such as the United States would have disastrous effects and should not even considered for use. Having at least some privacy is a part of being human, and the social credit score system would take away much of that. 

Blog Post #12: FINAL BLOG POST

Introduction:    

  There is no doubt that we live in a world enriched and reliant upon technology. Whether this is ultimately negatively or positively impacting the world, technology is continually being integrated into every part of life on earth regardless. The consequences of technology are prevalent as hard as we try to remove them. At the end of the day, everyone has their own views and relationships with technology, and it is only individuals that can truly draw conclusions on what is best for them and the lives they want to live. 

    Throughout the timeline of technology's growth and development, the world has seen the negative and positive effects of it in society. In my own life, my experience is not much different, yet it is through regulation and mindfulness that humans can find balance and solstice in a world dominated by technology. 

Technology Over Time

    Technology has adapted to the needs of humans over the course of time: it has grown quickly, becoming more advanced seemingly by the second as of modern day. Starting out as the telegraph, radio, or telephone, technology became a method of convenience and communication. As it became more successful, it became a more innate part of society. Why would some get news from a newspaper when they can listen to the radio in their home? Why go through the trouble of writing a letter when you can send a telegraph that is a quicker method to get one's message across?

    As technology continued to develop, it went from a convenience to a necessity. When everyone was relying on a certain technology, it did not make logical sense for someone to revert back to outdated ways of doing things. It became less convenient to use a resource that no one else used and easier to follow the crowd. This is also when technology wavered from just being a convenience; it also became entertainment. This could be seen arguably as the beginning of technology's "negative impacts."

Technology's Shift from Use-Based to Entertainment Oriented

    Technology has been continually created not only for entertainment, but for combining that aspect with some of the useful tools it provides in order make more money. This has led to a plethora for new inventions being made to combine these together. A perfect example of this would be social media. Fantastic for staying in touch with old friends or relatives, yet entertaining in its images, videos, and endless supply of media to read and watch. 

    Not only a distraction to social media's original use, it cultivates impossible beauty standards, comparison, and low confidence. Social media has been quickly overrun with those going to impossible lengths to receive affirmation for their ability to entertain and please other people. 

    With everything technology provides, it also provides an endless stream of negativity regardless of what its intended use is. Apps, games, and websites which desire users' attention in order to make money are smart in the ways they distract people. In today's day and age, no one can get anything done quickly and effectively, which most of which is on an electronic device, without getting a notification, advertisement, or some sort of targeted distraction.

    Some may wonder, at what point will technology really be convenient again? When it comes to the endless amount of information, media, and activities it provides, technology is becoming less and less effective for its original purpose: making life easier. 

What Technology Looks Like in My Life

    In my life, I am no stranger to the dangerous distractions that are constantly appearing on the majority of the websites I use to study and do work, such as Quizlet, Google Drive, and Google. I have been able to establish personal boundaries within myself in order to create space between myself and other distractions. Of course, putting on "do not disturb" on my computer or phone does not take away all distraction, but it does assist when it comes to getting work done. 

    When it comes to my relationship with social media, growing up, I was quite sheltered to most of it. My parents knew it was toxic for growing girls who are still just trying to get comfortable with themselves as is. Now, I manage what comes onto my feed when using social media apps by hitting "not interested" on toxic posts and streams of information that threaten my headspace. That way, the algorithms recognize my distaste and put forth more content that I prefer and is better suited for my mental health. Even with being careful in regulating what I see on social media, the time I spend on it still needs to be limited. I put screen time limits on my social media daily, so I can be aware of how much of my day I am dedicated to scrolling.

Conclusion

    Without a doubt, social media and technology have a plethora of pros and cons; though intended for good, it can be argued that technology has done humans a world of hurt. Regardless of what negative impacts it seems to have however, it seems that technology is here to stay. Though I do not plan on reverting back to writing letters and buying paper newspapers, I will continue to implement boundaries upon technology in my personal life. Like most things in life, technology is a privilege. Not only is it a privilege to afford technology and to be in a financial place to pay for its upkeep and updates, but it also is a privilege to be able to be in a good health both physically and mentally to use it regularly in my everyday life. 

    With that being said, it is essential to be mindful when it comes to one's online presence and usage amounts. The smarter and more advanced technology gets, the harder it is to hide one's online history, media presence, and screen time. Being aware of this and who I am presenting myself as online is more important than ever in today's society. As I am in this new season of adulthood, I am hoping to continue to grow in my knowledge and abilities concerning technology. It is my hope, that with mindfulness and strategy, technology can be a force for good in my own life. 

Blog Post #10

     While watching the film "The Age of AI," I was able to gather more detailed information on artificial intelligence that I did not previous know. The documentary series, exploring the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and how it is revolutionizing the world we live in today, is produced by youtube and hosted by Robert Downey Jr. This, in itself, is irony at its finest. 

    One of Downey Jr's most famous roles, Iron Man, otherwise known as Tony Stark, is known for using advanced artificial intelligence to assist with his new inventions, products, and ideas. His AI assistant, known as JARVIS, is his robot partner in crime that assists him in his endeavors and ultimately plays a huge role in the success of Iron Man. Within the context of "The Age of AI," this combination of artificial intelligence education with a host who is so affiliated with artificial intelligence is enrapturing for the audience.

     Within the portion watched in class, the impact artificial intelligence has on the workplace is presented. As it becomes more prevalent in industries such as finance, manufacturing, and transportation, it is examines the potential impacts. artificial intelligence has on jobs in the economy. While with technology, it has always been established that it would cost America some jobs as it makes life more convenient. However, with artificial intelligence, the use for humans to have jobs of use could possibly go extinct.

    Whether taking over data analytics or creating multimedia productions, the use of artificial intelligence on so many different platforms leads to the question of the ethics of its use and to what extent. Though debated by electronic users everywhere on what extent artificial intelligence should have, the release of Chat GPT, the most advanced artificial intelligence technology thus far, has raised significant controversy. Not only does it give students easy avenues for cheating and not learning materials given to them themselves, it also is able to replicate people's voices and faces, leading to some dangerous outcomes such as identity theft, fraud, and privacy issues. 

    Italy already banned AI and Chat GPT recently as the dangers it can create already went into effect shortly after its release. When it comes to America, officials are not sure what step will be taken next, whether that is restricting the use of Chat GPT or banning it entirely. Regardless, it cannot be debated that artificial intelligence can be used for much good yet also create much danger; it is yet to be seen whether or not this new resource will better or worsen the world. 

Blog #9

    "Confirmation Bias:" a hot topic word heard often, but often not defined adequately. When looking at the way confirmation bias is discussed in the media, it is often described as "impartial," "invalid," and "unnecessary." Though this can sometimes be used to describe the term, it does not truly encompass the entire theory. Ironically, the word confirmation bias in the media is often surrounded in defensiveness and pointing fingers at others on the big bad "other side" for having it. However, this reaction in itself is exactly what confirmation bias really is. 

    When looking at what the exact definition of confirmation bias is, the Oxford Dictionary describes it as "the tendency to interpret new evidence as confirmation of one's own existing beliefs or theories." This can also be described as "cherry picking." Picking and choosing which evidence to remember and acknowledge to support your ideas both formally and simply in one's head. Most of the time, this will happen unconsciously, for the most part, because the brain naturally will do this in order to support a thought process and avoid restarting a new one. It is, in lay terms, a cognitive shortcut.

    Whatever one's belief may be, cognizant or not, it is with confirmation bias that a person will mentally or physically support their claim. In the example I used in the beginning, accusing the "big bad other side" for having confirmation bias, it would indeed be ironic due to the fact that one who already thinks that "the other side" is bad is confirmation bias in itself. The alleged "good side" would take any example of something "bad" as confirmation bias and apply it directly to the "bad side"; therefore the majority of their evidence would support their claim that the other side is bad. 

    Confirmation bias is seen everywhere, but a good place to start if actively seeking out real world examples of it would be in politics. It can rarely be debated that both political parties in our two party system are not notorious for throwing opposing viewpoints under the bus and picking specific evidence and completely ignoring other pieces in order to support their claims or opinions. 

    Not only does confirmation bias block the original thinker, but additionally, whomever is on the potential receiving end of hearing their claims and information. This is how false or non-encompassing news, echo chambers, censorship issues, black and white thinking, prejudice, and a lack of education on important topics germinate. Having an incredibly malevolent impact, it is important to find information from a variety of sources. 

    What is important to note is that all human beings have inherent biases, leading to all humans having the experience of confirmation bias in their life. The person in the example above has confirmation as does the "other side," the opposing viewpoint of whatever he or she believes. Because this is a universal experience. Like it or not, we have all used confirmation bias at one point or another, most often, without even noticing. 

    Though confirmation bias is inherently harmful, it is important to accept the fact that we as humans have all done it and fallen victim to it. Not only noting it in others, but also taking personal responsibility for times confirmation bias got te best of us is an important part of becoming more aware. Respectfully spreading awareness of confirmation bias and becoming educated on what it entails and how to combat it are the first steps to allowing your community to become as impartial as possible in whatever mental or physical data collection is occurring. 

    Though COVID-19 may be less prevalent in 2023, confirmation bias continues to be an epidemic. With social media more active than ever, viewers must take every piece of data they come across with a grain of salt. Formulating opinions must involve attaining information from all viewpoints in order to truly be informed on what one is believing. 

Blog #8

    When looking at artificial intelligence (AI), it can be seen that this, though not a brand new invention, has risen to popularity and has been all over the news as of late. Specifically, AI in the form of the now notorious "Chat GPT." When looking at Chat GPT through the lens of the Diffusion Theory, it is in the late stages of "early adopters" and making its way to an "early majority" influence on our society today. 

    Known as an ultra advanced intelligence chat box where specific, curated, and accurate responses are sent immediately to whatever query sent to it by its user. Chat GPT, being the most advanced chat box and virtual assistant ever to be seen, is both revered and feared for its capabilities. 

    The curiosity and paranoia surrounding this new application is what has allowed it to spread both in the media and in users. It is able to be more efficient than Google, giving direct, accurate answers to questions without having to scroll through a plethora of links to find what one is looking for. However, this is not its only use. It can write essays, draw up or mimic faces or voices, and formulate detailed analyses using data. 

    Uncle Ben from Spider Man, says, "with great power comes great responsibility," and that could not ring more true. Artificial intelligence, especially Chat GPT, can be a great resource, especially if it can be continually accessible to all with an electronic device for free. However, it can foster controversy, plagiarism, and confusion with its accurate mimics. 

    The integration of Chat GPT into our society, workplaces, and culture will ultimately be catastrophic. Countries already are banning it, such as Italy, and for good reason. Chat GPT will upset the balance that we as humans have in life. With the involvement of Chat GPT in Americans' lives, we blur the line of ethical vs. nonethical even further. 

    At the end of the day, Chat GPT is a weapon of the most modern extreme. If not regulated, it can be used to bring upon further destruction to the world as we know it. However, with careful deliberation, thoughtful reflection, and meaningful restrictions, Chat GPT can be an asset to our society. 

Blog #7

     When listening to the different presentations presented during Week Five, a certain presentation stood out to me due to the information presented. This information, which was frankly, shocking, changed my perception of what language can look like. 

The presenter, who explained how emojis are slowly becoming a new language entirely,  stated its history, along with its progression to modern day. This information, which upon first glance did not seem appealing to me, slowly captured my interest as I realized what this could look like for language in the future. 

        An example the presenter used to show how emojis are being pushed into being an entirely new language was a book, written like a comic book with emojis being exclusively used for all the captions. This first book, titled, "Emoji Dick," was a direct emoji translation of the classic narrative by Herman Melville "Moby Dick." 

    The first of its kind, "Emoji Dick" paved the way for a new method of communication and literature, if it can even be called that. Though personally, I do not believe emojis will ever take over as an independent language. Because the symbols can be interpreted so many ways, the language would never be specific enough to be interpreted accurately unless set definitions were made. Even with that, there are not enough emojis and so many different kinds of emojis based on different types of technologies that it would not be a cohesive language. 

    Regardless, I think it still can be appreciated. Especially for young kids just starting to learn how to read, the symbols, which are recognizable for even young children, can be potentially used as a learning tool to transition to reading real words. 

    It is without a doubt that the use of emojis in books and written works are becoming increasingly popular. Though never going to be valid in the world of real, certified languages and information, I think it still is ultimately a fun way to communicate casually. 

Blog Post #6

     The voice of dissent, against popular opinion of the public and government is a voice often not mainstreamed in the media or politics. Voices of dissent being inaccessible or almost completely muted has been a prevalent issue throughout the United States' history. 

    Specifically, antiwar voices and groups were majorly censored in the face of the first world war, possibly due to being seen as a threat to nationalism and unity. The First Amendment, promising freedom of speech unless said speech consists of true threats, incitement, and libel, is infringed upon with this censorship. 

    In fact, four cases arguing this went to the Supreme Court in 1919, known as the Quartet of Cases. Consisting of Schenck, Debs, Frohwerk, and Abrams, these four cases all fought censorship being placed upon their antiwar ideas and socialist or communist leanings. Within these cases, they had Holmes' clear and present danger tests performed along with using the definitions of the first amendment and incitement to support their claim that the censorship of their opinions was unconstitutional.

    Though this occurred in 1919 and would thought to be firmly in the past, this is still happening today. History continues to repeat itself with the looming possibility of a war with Russia over the Russia/Ukraine conflict. 

    In my personal experience as a consumer of a variety of news sources on a regular basis, I have yet to come across any information not supporting getting involved in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, when looking at The American Conservative or Antiwar news sites, antiwar voices are suddenly much more prevalent. 

    Though it is obvious that all news sources will have inherent bias that will lead to some opinions being displayed more than others, the complete and utter lack of any mention of antiwar ideas is shocking. Reading antiwar articles for the first time since the war in Ukraine started on February 24, 2022, over a year ago, other beliefs in regards to the United State's responsibility or lack thereof on the side lines emerge. 

    With the recent issues of censorship for those with antiwar voices, it can be seen that the fight for protecting Americans' first amendment rights are clearly not over. Having to put in extra effort to seek out obscure websites in order to hear opposing views from the mainstream is alarming and should pose questioning of how diverse our sources of information really are.