Technopoly-the surrender of culture to technology

liveoaktx

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Fri Dec-23-05 05:44 PM
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Technopoly-the surrender of culture to technology

I read a book this summer by Neil Postman that discussed the overarching theme now that technology trumps humanity.

It occurs to me that the discussion Bush is having is whether technology itself can trump, because of the circumstances of the world, basic civil liberties simply because the technology is CAPABLE of doing more than a more basic, time-consuming process.

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shance

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Fri Dec-23-05 05:52 PM
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1. As long as its not being detected or stopped, it trumps civil liberties.

n/t

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Ezlivin

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Fri Dec-23-05 06:08 PM
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2. Excellent book! I've read and re-read it several times

Postman seems to "get" the effect that technology has on culture.

I don't know how many times I've referred to the story of the introduction of matches to an African tribe.

The internet is a good example of a technology introduced that created unforeseen changes in the culture. After all, who would have guessed that blogs would affect journalism seven years ago?

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xchrom

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Fri Dec-23-05 06:35 PM
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3. who would've guessed major journalism would have been reduced

to entertainment seven years ago -- well in reality we could -- it was being done on as grand a scale as today -- but you see my point re: major journalism.

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Ezlivin

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Fri Dec-23-05 06:41 PM
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4. What's it easier to do: Entertain or inform?

It really is the path of least resistance. Even schools have bought into the idea that classes shouldn't be "boring". As a result we have televisions in every classroom, pep rallies to boost student's "school spirit" and endless calls for the incorporation of more interactive computer "teaching".

The President himself finds it necessary to attempt humor during press conferences. He has a complete lack of gravitas, seemingly viewing the pulpit of the Presidency as nothing more than a slot on a reality show.

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xchrom

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Fri Dec-23-05 06:52 PM
Response to Reply #4

5. infotainment, jesurtainment, -- just the sheer disonanse

that modern technology creates.

it's a job -- but if we are to create a civilization that doesn't stagnate we have to do something.

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