Final Blog Post

     As I have gotten older, I have realized that the adults were right telling me that social media and technology addiction would "ruin my brain". Having mixed feelings about the usage of technology and its impact on one's life is okay. But I would say that the impact is in fact there. Personally, technology did ruin my concept of myself and others around me. I took a social media cleanse for 3 months and it was the best I had ever felt. However, still using apps like TikTok and Instagram kept me connected to the outside world and the perspectives of peers and people all over the world. While using these types of platforms for my information, I do worry if the information is trustworthy, which is why as a media literate person, I double or triple check anything that is spread by mouth- however many people show up on these applications with receipts. Without the use of some apps, I feel like I would not be half as educated or in touch with a certain reality as I am. Through my growth without being attached to certain technology, I realized that I used it as an easy fix for dopamine. Stanford University conducted a research study based on the dopamine levels while using certain social media apps, and concluded that social media does in fact our dopamine reactors while incorporating algorithms to keep us there, along with receiving snapchats and short lasting dopamine elevating content, ending with as we stop using our socials, like at the end of a day, our brains are plunged into a dopamine-deficit, which can lead to creating mental health issues. I definitely think my relationship with my phone and technology has gotten healthier, I use technology as a source of power. I look to use it as a source of information and personal growth. 

    While growing up, I also didn't take the online footprint warning too seriously. I do not have anything concerning in my online footprint, however it is a big risk for society, especially today. As it is a risk, it can also be used as a benefactor. People post their whole lives on the internet today. What they are doing, where they are, what they are eating, where they work, what they do on the weekends; literally everything. It is possible to use an online footprint and presence to find people looking to do harm to others or themselves. It is a known fact, that digital footprints are able to be used to stop a premeditated school shooting- or could have been in many occasions. Studies and programs have been launched to pick harmful behaviors by their actions and movements online. Digital footprints can also be used to keep harmful or discriminative people out of the workforce and college. No employer wants to find out their new hire tweeted a racist rant in 2018! This has recently happened a lot in our pop culture; racist pasts being brought up in the media hierarchy calls for a social media "cancel culture" renaissance. A digital footprint can break an entire professional career in today's society, and a lot of the public seems to forget that.  

    As I continue to grow and learn, reminding myself along with my friends and family that social media is not meant for us to use 24/7, and keeping the right mindset while using technology; I have created a healthy relationship with the fact that technology was originally intended for us to use as a tool to evolve and connect- not compare and argue with stranger on the internet. Which is typically uncommon among people in my generation. Constantly making sure that my parents are aware of fake news spread, and how to identify AI has become a big note as the weeks continue in 2024. Technology, and social media specifically have become an evolutionary way for us as consumers to get loads of information from first hand civilians- which is a reason why I hold my social media so dearly, I believe it brings a sense of humanity and humility rather than a newspaper headline. 

        

Anti War in America

    
     While learning about anti war voices and their repercussions in Americas Progressive Era (1920's), along with censorship and push for war from the government- I cannot help but wonder if history is repeating itself today. Anti war rhetoric has been around since we saw the US enter WWI. With protests and journalists pushing for peace, the government pushed back pro war rhetoric faster and harder. We see brief anti war protests in the mainstream media today, protesting against the wars in Ukraine and Palestine. however, the media displays anti war beliefs and protesting in a negative light. Mainstream media broadcasts to a larger scale- many of which are pro war. The current political climate can affect the way the mainstream news depicts war, and can sometimes manipulate or switch the blame of protesters- encouraging their agenda. 

   

    Exploring websites like Antiwar.com can give an abundance of real information to the public. Giving real policies, news, real life stories from those living or reporting from countries affected by America's part int the war, and most importantly- bringing humanity into their writing. Antiwar.com allows reading and seeing journalism from war inflicted countries and seeing the casualties rise can be crucial to the load of information. As our typical mainstream media news outlets become a stronger force with the rise of social media and streaming, it is harder for these anti war outlets to breakthrough the walls of strong corporations with harsh information that is not necessarily able to be digested by many- especially with the mainstream media downplay or defection of these issues. 

    A site also lower on the anti war media radar is a website called the American Conservative. This site alike AntiWar, welcomes the facts of wrongdoing in government and military. The site highlights Americas current events, and also compares American history to current times. Along with the comparison to other countries and their governments as well- keeping everyone in check. Again, the site is heavily squashed by the new corporations and larger media outlets. Both of these sites highlight critical thinking, they dig deep into reporting the extensive issues that America has created or taken on by being politically involved in current or previous war. Understanding various viewpoints on war and our military actions (and funding) makes citizens more informed which provides the opportunity for discussion and actions/voicing opinions on policy. 

    

EOTO2 Reaction

         I thoroughly enjoyed listening to these presentations. All of the types of media, journalism, ideologies, etc. were very in depth and easily to be understood by a listener. Group two stuck out to me a lot, with the topics being citizen journalism, alternative media, and podcasts. The group used a lot of real life examples of their topics that really put these "broader" topics into perspective that we use these in our every day lives without even thinking too much into their purpose and why we are using them. We have become so accustomed to this lifestyle where as media consumers- we do not tend to think of who filmed it, why they were filming it, why I as a viewer am seeing it, and why it was published in the form it was published in. 

        While learning about citizen journalism, it really did open my eyes to how lucky we are in this generation to have platforms to show real life situations to the world. In the example shown, there were two videos. The first was a video of a casket floating down the floodwaters of hurricane Helene in Asheville, NC from TikTok; and another of the assassination of JFK from YouTube. The average news outlet often fails to form a "humanity" connection to views- as citizen journalism is from those actually living through it. This is very, very prominent currently with the genocide in Gaza. We have seen hundreds and thousands of videos coming from Palestinians like Bisan Owda, a citizen journalist who has held the world captive with her story telling and heartbreaking updates from the ground since October 7th 2023; with information and footage the mainstream media fails to display for us. Citizen journalism is crucial to the way we get our information today, it is unforgiving, and gives a look into how real situations affect people actually living them.

 

      I also enjoyed listening about the benefits of podcasts and alternative media, and the niche informational outlets that certain demographics of people can listen in to and feel connected, supported, or just up to date on. I believe as scary as the world of information and public knowledge goes, there are many benefits to these outlets and platforms- it depends on the way we intend to use and spread this information that could be the downfall to mass information. I think the group articulated the ideals extremely well with powerful stances to back them up on their importance to society. 

The Dangers Of Disinformation

     

In today's world, the way we intake our news looks extremely different from how it was distributed in fifty years ago. Americans would wake up, read their newspapers, turn on news on the radio, and go about their day. Today, news is absolutely anywhere we look. While scrolling through timelines on social media, we are distributed mass amounts of information on countless topics; broadening citizen's knowledge- or is it hurting it. The spread of disinformation has affected societies ability to improve public health, address climate change, maintain a stable democracy, and trust government officials. One of the key characteristics to look out for while trying to identify disinformation is deceptive intent- which is purposely intended to mislead, typically rooted in political, ideological, or economic interests. 

    Knowing what disinformation is, can help us decipher between the big MDM.

MDM stands for Misinformation, Disinformation, and Malformation. These are called information disorders. Information Disorder Syndrome is the intent to spread false information with or without intent to harm someone. it is categorized into three grades. Misinformation is information not intending to cause harm, disinformation is false information that is intended to manipulate, cause damage, or guide people and organizations in the wrong direction. Finally we have malformation, this information stems from the truth but is often exaggerated in a way that misleads and causes potential harm to those a part of it. As no one in particular is in "charge" of deciding what is harmful information or not, knowing these types of information disorders can lead to a smarter society and expand critical thinking, something very much needed in todays age of information releases.  Disinformation's manipulation of info not only deceives, but also undermines trust. It acts as a cohesive force, eroding faith in scientists, institutions, and creating a division within communities. It poses a threat to our nation, as experts urge the public to actually read into the issues that news outlets are manipulating with. I can not personally think of any good that comes from the spread of false information. It is incredibly damaging to the young minds of our generation that are falsely being molded for gain of a higher power in society. 

   

As society is becoming more divided, there is a risk that individuals may becomes selective in their acceptance of information based on their pre-existing beliefs. Documentation must strive to present an objective and unbiased view of facts to bridge societies divide; this would inherently build the transparency and trust back into the American people, along with citizens internationally who pose the same threat. This is a worldwide issue- not just an American one. Without fact checks or access to unbiased and true information without the spread of fear mongering- readers or listeners are impacted by the information, playing a role in their future choices, opinions, and decisions. The spread of disinformation affects people of all economic levels, sexualities, generations, races, and more. As the rise of disinformation continues, understanding the nuances of these information disorders is essential for developing effective countermeasures and fostering informed communities. 

Does Private REALLY mean Private?

      

In todays age, it seems that everyone always has a phone or other communication device in their hands.  Our generation is always on social media, texting each other, or always on the go in our vehicles. You may read that statement and agree. Shopping online, texting, and completing daily tasks is the norm. However, there is always a catch when it comes to technology- a deep underlying issue that has the capability to snowball into incivility and puts us at risk as Americans. 

    The American government has begun implementing surveillance technology into local police departments to track civilians movements- even if you are not specifically being targeted.

License plate tracking has begun to become an awaited issue as it is an invasion of privacy to civilians. For example, this harmful police surveillance can be heavily abused. It is able to track attendees at a mosque, peaceful protest, LGBTQ areas, and more spaces that are minority inclusive, or stereotyped against. Another example of police surveillance is the use of the "Stingray"; which uses phone tracking signals to see who is inside of a home, and where at. This is extremely invasive to Americans in many different aspects. 

   
Along with the use of police surveillance, invasive technology does not end there. Wire tapping has heavily affected the stance around how private our technology is and how safe we are while using our texting apps and phone calls. While Apple products are not as susceptible to wire-tapping, it is still possible and concerning to the average American- the feeling of never being secure in your privacy is extremely concerning. It could affect myself and my friends at any point in our lives. Protecting ourselves from an invasion of privacy within our technology would be becoming aware of online safety and becoming educated on how it happens, what to do if it does happen, and how to prevent a wire tap or any type of hack that would gain our information. With the issue of the government invading civilian privacy, local police departments governed by city officials can have cuts to decrease these new forms of surveillance equipment, as more and more people raise civil liberty threats. To resolve this issue also, internet companies need to be held accountable for their information leaks, illegal sites, and information payouts- we need clear and strict enforcement to back up civilians and their rights to privacy.  

The Printing Press

     Imagine, it is the 1400's, any book or manuscript was handwritten, and most of the population is unable to read or obtain a piece of literature. This was all a reality until a piece of machinery created by Johannes Gutenberg revolutionized the way books and literature were created and distributed. In this era, books were extremely expensive and inaccessible, and as a the gaining literacy levels in Europe increased- the need for a cheaper and quicker process of producing literature work was due.

Gutenberg, a poor metalsmith, was looking for ways to make an income using his work. He needed a fast and efficient technique to mass produce works while being able to cut costs of books. Taking inspiration from eastern wood-blocking technique, Gutenberg decided to twist the craft, creating metal individual letters working together under a larger piece of equipment to print sentences all together at once- repeatedly, giving a substantial alternative to book making and the manufacture of books. After some time, collaboration, and a loan, Gutenberg was able to produce two-hundred copies of the Gutenberg Bible, printed in Latin. The use of the printing press turned into an assembly-line type of work while printing, making it effective and quicker than the hand scribes were able to create books, while producing them for the masses. 

    The invention of the printing press revolutionized Europe. It facilitated the spreading and preservation of knowledge in the standardized form, crucial to the advancement of science, technologies, religion, education, and much more throughout nations.

This eliminated risks of text altercation within hand writing texts, creating stability among all subject matters. The immediate change coming from the printing press was in fact cutting the costs of books, being able to fill library's shelves at a lower cost rate, and the quickening gain of knowledge through Europe. This sent the mass movement of spreading information and ideas between others into play. During this era, the printing press is credited for initiating the "information revolution"  and its mass spread of ideas and self exploration between individuals. This was extremely crucial to the development into the Renaissance Era; and Martin Luther's spreading of religious information. With the newly released printing press, those who were unable to read, would gather to listen to readers list off news, stories, and information from the papers- building a stronger sense of community. 

   

Given the time period that the printing press was invented in, there were various negatives seen by those of higher power, or those unwilling to confide to change. Misinformation spread was a big concern, along with the individual's power to challenge the norm or authoritative power at the time. Although challenging was dangerous at the time, individuals remained in control of their words and continued to print- further revolutionizing Europe and other nations. 

    I learned a lot from researching the printing press. We are incredibly lucky in today's society to have words and information at our fingertips; our society often forgets about how it started and what our technology has built from. The printing press was able to educate thousands of individuals while making the process more affordable and accessible to those who were interested. The printing press was able to aid in many aspects and subjects across the globe, whether it be politics, religion, science, or community news sources. 

The Supreme Court

    

    Growing up, students in the school systems of America were taught the basis of the Supreme Court and their impact on the ever evolving society that we live in today. As the years passed, we watched Justice's come and enter into the court. While growing up, I have realized that the Supreme Court not only affects our government programs, but also our general freedoms as American Citizens and how they are interpreted by the law today. Before watching the video, I did not know a lot of mundane situations of an everyday American can be impacted by the Supreme Court if the situation permits. 

    

    

    After watching a twenty minute documentary on the Supreme Court, I realized that the most important take away was that these cases take a prolonged amount of time to start, discuss, see, and dissent. The Justices do not simply make a decision, there is multiple voices of reason, and background involved. The Justice's dissect these cases and determine what follows the US Constitution, and what applied to today's modern world. This process between the nine Justice's takes time, and patience within each other- and with the best interest of the American citizens in mind. While becoming more familiar with the court and how it works, I found it incredibly interesting that while the Justice's are all hearing a case- there may be three or four different streams of thought that are all being discussed and arguments within.

 

    I have very mixed feelings about the Supreme Court; I think it is a very powerful and applauded level of law. I believe there have been very talented and intelligent judges that have served on the court over the years. In todays era of the Supreme Court; I believe that some of the justices currently serving are questionable at times. As am American citizen- and a woman- the Supreme Court appears to diminish a lot of the power that the court previously gave Americans. After watching this video, I have gained respect for the Supreme Court and the judges on the court that do intend to keep the best interest of the people in mind.  I have gained respect for the Justice's that serve- as they are very intelligent individuals, but after watching this documentary- I cannot help but wonder what has changed in the few years between when this film was released. 

    

The Eight Values of Free Expression, and Their Correspondence to Today

     Since the writing of the first amendment, undoubtedly, a lot has changed when thinking about todays age. Whether referring to foreign policies and the occupation of global countries, the 2024 election ideologies and debates, or the government mechanics that are in place to aid the American people. The first amendment is crucial to the American people and government; keeping the citizens at a sense of peace with being able to form together as a collective and spread ideas, criticism, opinions, art, and more. There are eight total values of free expression, all of which are crucial and implementable to the American government and people and should be conveyed at all times. However, I personally have a top value of free expression right now that I think is being perfectly implemented and used in todays current events. 

    As America is impatiently counting down the days until November 5th, the press, along with the American people have not been hesitant to run to social media to clip presidential rallies, interviews, and conferences. Using this newer social media change has given the American people the ability to subconsciously, or consciously become in favor to one official or the other. Along with providing information and fact checks on the individual speaking- allowing for America to keep the candidates as truthful as they may struggle to be. Using the checks on governmental power can be extremely beneficial to the American people, using their vertical checks and balances ability to take their power to the polls on, or before Election Day to make the difference they want to see. 

    Another value of free expression that runs hand in hand with governmental checks, is stable change: the ability to let alienated and angry citizens to vent about the government- essentially keeping it in check.

 In this century, the internet has allowed for a safe space for alienated or oppressed groups of Americans to publish their hardships, call the government out, and expose unethical programs in place within our country. With the increased viewership on these apps like TikTok and X, it allows the citizens (voters), to empathize, or turn inward on the government in a morality standpoint. With angry citizens speaking out, their voices are heard, and those who are listening have the power to stand together with this marginalized group- and create change together by calling upon government action; relating to checks on government. 

    While all eight of these values of free expression are all interlinked in human nature, the American government relies on the citizens to be able to express their ideas, opinions, art, creativity, scientific discoveries, and philosophies to be able to grow as a nation. Of course, there are those that are disagreed with, however, it is important to our ability as citizens to be able to scrutinize the government and share one's own ideas and improvisations about society and what we want it to look like, we are able to (very) slowly shape our nations future into a place where citizens are able to feel safe with creating. 

My Top 5 News Sources

     Finding a news source that is reliable or non biased in todays media outlets seems near impossible. However, I have navigated through the internet enough to find specific media outlets that are taken from real experiences and given out from the source.

   

My first main source of news happens to be TikTok; a very popular video/ photo social media. TikTok has been revolutionary to the way news has been spread around the globe. News outlets like NBC, ABC, CNN, etc. have created accounts that snippet important ones events to upload to the app; giving thousands of people light access to whats going on in the world without needing to do any research. TikTok also has uploads from Palestine, protests in the US, political opinions and debates, and so much more information that is crucial to the development of the "American mind". Having an outlet that releases so much information from educators, scientists, doctors, and professionals about any world event is extremely beneficial and crucial in todays age. 

    Another source that I find myself referring to and reading is CNN.  

Keeping up with he election this year has been a whirlwind, and their reporting has been top game for the Democratic Party. CNN also is diligent with their reporting on events within America and outside. For a very popular outlet, their attention to important details and fact checking have been very beneficial to readers and Americans who are looking to become educated on certain aspects and sides of the American government and current updates coming from Washington. 

    Another news outlet I use very often is X, or formally known as "Twitter".

I use X to check real time events. Live updates filter through X the quickest. I also recommend X to anyone who wants to keep up with their state representatives. Congress members use twitter to voice their opinions greatly; whether it is a good opinion- or a very different opinion. It allows viewers (and voters) to become more familiarized and personalized with their representatives or candidate. 

    

As someone who was born and raised in a very small town, I check my local news almost every day. WJAC is a news source for local news in Pennsylvania. Keeping up with events that happen at home is very important to me and allows me to connect to my family and friends at home still. My area is also extremely impacted by tragedy, specific economic and social issues,. Being able to keep up with what is affecting my peers and family keeps me engaged in current policies and engages critical thinking skills dealing with future issues and solutions. Keeping up with local news whether in a hometown or a current living situation is crucial to being an active member of your community. 

    The final news source that I check regularly is Politico.

Politico gives all around news updates on all sides of the polls. Politico also dives into policy, and explains in depth the meaning and reasoning behind some of the choices that candidates make. Politico also does not hold back in criticizing a statement. The source also spreads into the other elections running at this time- and how other levels of government officials can affect the future of America.