Blog Post #7- Group. 3 theories

           Confirmation bias is the tendency to search for, interpret, favor, and recall information that confirms one’s preexisting beliefs or values. A cognitive bias leads individuals to give more weight to evidence that supports their beliefs and undervalue evidence that contradicts them. This bias is prevalent in all aspects of human life, from personal relationships to political views, and it influences how we process information and make decisions. (link)

The implications of confirmation bias are profound and far-reaching. On an individual level, it can lead to poor decision-making and the entrenchment of false beliefs. For instance, someone who believes in a particular health fad may selectively gather and remember information that supports its benefits while ignoring scientific evidence that debunks it. This selective thinking can have detrimental effects on one's health and well-being. (link)

On a societal level, confirmation bias contributes to polarization and the formation of echo chambers, where people are only exposed to information that reinforces their existing views. This is particularly evident in the political landscape, where media consumption patterns reflect and amplify partisan divides. The rise of social media has exacerbated this phenomenon, as algorithms often prioritize content that aligns with users’ preferences, creating a feedback loop of reinforcing beliefs. (link)

While confirmation bias is generally seen as a negative cognitive distortion, it can have some positive aspects. It can provide psychological comfort and coherence, helping individuals maintain a stable worldview in uncertainty. This stability can be beneficial in stressful situations, providing a sense of certainty and control. (link)

However, the negative aspects often outweigh the positives. Confirmation bias can hinder critical thinking, innovation, and open-mindedness. It can perpetuate ignorance and misinformation, leading to societal stagnation. For example, in the scientific community, it can slow down the acceptance of new theories and discoveries if they contradict established paradigms.

 

Confirmation bias affects various segments of society differently. For the wealthy and powerful, it can reinforce their status and beliefs, making them less receptive to change and social progress. For the poor and marginalized, it can entrench feelings of disenfranchisement and helplessness, as they might only see information that confirms their lack of opportunities.

Age can also play a role in how confirmation bias manifests. Younger individuals might be more susceptible to it due to less life experience and critical thinking skills. In comparison, older individuals might be more set in their ways, having spent a lifetime reinforcing their beliefs. Gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity can further intersect with confirmation bias, influencing how different groups perceive social issues and policies.

Understanding confirmation bias can be enlightening and transformative on a personal level. Recognizing this bias can lead to more critical thinking and open-mindedness for me and my peers. It encourages us to seek diverse perspectives and challenge our assumptions, fostering intellectual growth and empathy.

Awareness of confirmation bias can improve communication and relationships for families and friends. It can help us understand why others may hold different views and reduce conflicts arising from misunderstandings. In our generation, combating confirmation bias is crucial in navigating the vast and complex information landscape we are exposed to daily.

Agenda setting is a theory in mass communication that describes the ability of the media to influence the importance placed on the topics of the public agenda. If a news item is covered frequently and prominently, the audience will regard the issue as more important. This theory, proposed by Maxwell McCombs and Donald Shaw in 1972, underscores media's significant role in shaping public perception and priorities. (link)

The implications of agenda-setting are vast and profound. Media outlets, consciously or unconsciously, shape public discourse and perception by highlighting specific issues. This can have both positive and negative outcomes. On the positive side, media can bring attention to critical issues such as climate change, social justice, and public health, fostering awareness and prompting action.

However, there are also negative consequences. Media can disproportionately focus on sensational or trivial issues, diverting attention from more pressing matters. For instance, excessive coverage of celebrity scandals can overshadow important news about economic policies or international affairs. This skewed representation can lead to a misinformed public and skewed priorities. (link)

Agenda setting can be a powerful tool for positive change. Media can drive societal progress and policy reforms by prioritizing issues like environmental protection, social equality, and public health. This was evident in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, where widespread media coverage prompted governments and individuals to take urgent action.

On the downside, agenda setting can perpetuate bias and inequality. Media ownership concentration means a few powerful entities can control the narrative, potentially sidelining minority viewpoints and interests. This can reinforce existing power structures and marginalize vulnerable groups. Additionally, the focus on sensationalism and conflict-driven stories can contribute to a polarized and divided society.

The effects of agenda-setting vary across different segments of society. Wealthy and educated individuals often have access to multiple news sources, allowing them to cross-check information and form well-rounded opinions. In contrast, those with limited access to diverse media may be more susceptible to a narrow and potentially biased agenda.

Age and digital literacy also play significant roles. Younger generations primarily consume news through social media and are exposed to algorithms that prioritize sensational and engagement-driven content. This can skew their perception of what is essential. Older generations, who may rely more on traditional media, might receive a different set of priorities based on the editorial choices of these outlets. Gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic status further intersect with agenda setting. Minority groups often find their issues underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream media, leading to a lack of visibility and support for their causes. This can exacerbate social inequalities and hinder efforts toward inclusivity and justice.

Both confirmation bias and agenda setting are powerful forces that shape our perceptions and interactions. By understanding their implications and actively seeking to mitigate their effects, we can promote a more informed, open-minded, and harmonious society. Recognizing and addressing these biases is a critical step towards a brighter future, where diverse perspectives are valued and public discourse leads to meaningful progress.

Blog Post #6 - Diffusion of Innovations

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most transformative technologies of our time. It’s changing how we work, play, and live. AI can be found in many areas, like healthcare, finance, and transportation. The Diffusion theory helps explain why new technologies catch on, who adopts them first, and why some people are slower to embrace or don't adopt them. It also allows us to see the potential downsides of AI.

AI is a powerful tool that empowers professionals in healthcare, finance, and technology. By automating repetitive tasks, it accelerates work processes and reduces errors, thereby enhancing efficiency and accuracy. Leveraging data, AI aids in making informed decisions. For instance, doctors can use AI to diagnose diseases more accurately, and lawyers can rely on it to provide layouts for comments or summarize court cases. Companies can harness AI to innovate and outpace their competitors, offering personalized services that attract a larger customer base.

AI platforms and user interfaces have evolved to become more user-friendly, making them accessible to everyone. Some AI tools even offer free versions with basic features, allowing users to try them out before considering more advanced versions. Media reports and case studies often showcase successful AI projects, demonstrating the tangible benefits of AI. When businesses and individuals witness others using AI successfully, they are more likely to consider adopting it themselves, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

Early adopters of AI typically include people and organizations excited about new technologies. These companies use AI to create unique solutions and disrupt traditional markets, universities, and research labs exploring AI for academic and practical purposes. Late adopters and non-adopters might be hesitant for several reasons: some people are concerned about whether AI is reliable or worry about its ethical implications and the potential for job losses, primarily, lack of technical expertise, and fear of the unknown can make people reluctant to adopt AI.

While AI has many benefits, it also comes with potential downsides. The use of AI in surveillance and data analysis raises significant privacy concerns. Decisions made by AI systems can pose ethical challenges, especially in sensitive areas like healthcare and criminal justice. As AI automates tasks, some jobs might be lost, raising concerns about economic inequality.

Blog Post #5- EOTO

 The invention of motion pictures marked a profound shift in how we consume entertainment and communicate ideas, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide and forever altering the landscape of media and culture.

The journey to motion picture technology began with a desire to capture and reproduce life-like motion. While several inventors contributed to this development, Thomas Edison and the Lumière brothers are often credited with pioneering efforts. In the late 19th century, Thomas Edison, alongside his assistant William Kennedy Laurie Dickson, developed the Kinetoscope. Edison envisioned the Kinetoscope as an extension of his phonograph, enabling the visual recording of motion to accompany sound. By 1891, Edison and Dickson had created a device that could project moving images to a single viewer through a peephole viewer. This invention, however, was limited in scope, as it could not project images to a larger audience.

Meanwhile, in France, Auguste and Louis Lumière advanced the technology further. Inspired by Edison's Kinetoscope but recognizing its limitations, the Lumière brothers developed the Cinématographe in 1895. This device not only captured and projected motion pictures but also allowed for multiple viewers to watch simultaneously,

laying the foundation for modern cinema. The Lumière brothers’ first public screening in December 1895 in Paris is often considered the birth of cinema, showcasing short films that captivated audiences and demonstrated the medium’s potential.

The primary problem these inventors aimed to solve was the desire to reproduce and share dynamic, moving images, extending the storytelling capabilities beyond still photography and early attempts at animation.

The advent of motion pictures had a transformative impact on entertainment, communication, and culture, heralding a new era of visual storytelling. Motion pictures revolutionized entertainment, creating an entirely new industry that provided audiences with immersive experiences. The medium enabled stories to be told with unprecedented realism and emotional depth. Early films like “The Great Train Robbery” (1903) showcased narrative storytelling, leading to the rise of feature films and the establishment of Hollywood as the epicenter of the global film industry.

Films became a powerful cultural force, influencing fashion, social norms, and public discourse. The silent film era, followed by the advent of “talkies” in the late 1920s, allowed for diverse narratives and voices to reach a broad audience. Icons like Charlie Chaplin and later, directors like Alfred Hitchcock and Stanley Kubrick, shaped popular culture and pushed the boundaries of cinematic art.

Motion pictures transformed communication by providing a medium that could convey complex ideas and emotions through visual and auditory means. This made it possible to reach illiterate populations, bridging educational and informational gaps. Documentaries and newsreels brought global events into theaters, fostering a more informed and connected world.

Despite its many benefits, the motion picture industry has not been without its drawbacks. The portrayal of stereotypes and propaganda has had lasting negative effects on societal attitudes and beliefs. Additionally, the centralization of film production in Hollywood led to a dominance of Western perspectives, often at the expense of diverse, global viewpoints.

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/inside-academy-museum-motion-pictures-180978782/

Blog Post #4 - Privacy, Online & Off

Juan Enriquez link) starts his talk with an analogy comparing tattoos to our online posts. Just as tattoos are permanent, so is what we share online. This permanence means that anything we post—photos, comments, videos—can potentially come back to affect us later in life. This idea is troubling because it means our digital footprint is inescapable.  thoughtless post from years ago could harm our future opportunities or reputation.

Enriquez suggests we should be more aware and careful about what we share online to mitigate these risks. However, this is easier said than done in an age where sharing has become second nature. The government could help by creating stronger privacy laws and ensuring companies better protect our data. But ultimately, individuals must take responsibility for their digital actions, realizing that once something is posted online, it’s there forever.

Catherine Crump (link) explains how law enforcement tracks our movements using surveillance cameras and license plate readers. This technology captures license plate images, which are then stored in databases, making it possible for police to track our locations over time. This constant surveillance means we're still being watched even if we haven’t committed a crime. This revelation is unsettling as it implies a loss of privacy and freedom. Knowing that our every move is potentially recorded changes how we behave and feel about our autonomy. While such surveillance can aid in solving crimes, it also raises significant privacy concerns. The government should be transparent about these practices and inform the public about the extent of surveillance. Additionally, regulations should prevent misuse of this information and protect citizens’ privacy.

Christopher Soghoian (link) emphasizes that our phones are powerful surveillance tools for governments. Despite thinking our communications are private, phone companies often cooperate with government surveillance efforts. This cooperation means authorities can track and access texts, calls, and even our locations. This realization is alarming because it contradicts the sense of privacy many people believe they have. Our metadata (like who we contacted and when) can still be tracked even with secure apps. Soghoian suggests using encryption and privacy-focused tools to protect our information. However, the effectiveness of these measures is limited if the infrastructure itself is compromised.








Chisolm ( link) discusses the severe impact of revenge porn, a form of digital abuse where intimate images are shared without consent, causing significant emotional and social harm. These TED Talks collectively highlight a pressing issue: our digital lives are far less private than we often believe. This pervasive surveillance affects our sense of security and freedom. Knowing that our actions are being recorded and stored, we might become more cautious about what we share and how we communicate. The government should strengthen data protection laws to ensure companies handle our data responsibly and transparently and regulate Surveillance Practices to protect citizens' privacy; clear guidelines and limitations hould be established on how surveillance data is collected, stored, and used.







We need to be mindful of everything we put online and think twice about posting, commenting, and browsing. Digital privacy is a significant concern that affects everyone. These TED Talks illustrate the importance of being aware of our digital footprint and taking proactive measures to protect our privacy. While the government plays a crucial role in regulating and protecting our data, individual vigilance is equally important. By understanding the risks and acting responsibly, we can better navigate the complexities of our digital lives.

Blog Post # 3- Reflecting on the Eight Values of Free Expression

1. Marketplace of Ideas (Discovery of Truth): This concept, championed by John Milton during the 17th century, emphasizes the importance of allowing people to express their thoughts freely. Milton believed that the truth would prevail over falsehoods in a free and open exchange of ideas. This principle remains significant in our modern society, particularly in the digital age, where it aids in discerning between real and fake information. This is most important because in today's world, where misinformation spreads quickly online, allowing ideas to compete helps us find the truth. 

2. Participation in Self-Government: For a democracy to work well, people need to be able to speak freely. If candidates and citizens can't share their ideas, voters can't make good decisions. We need free speech to be informed and participate in our government.

3. Stable Change (Safety Valve): This value is about letting people express their anger and frustrations openly. People who speak out are less likely to act out violently. It also helps the government monitor potential problems before they turn dangerous.

4. Individual Self-Fulfillment (Self-Actualization): Free speech is not just a right; it's a tool for personal growth and empowerment. It allows us to express ourselves freely, fostering connections with others who share our views. 

5. Check on Governmental Power (Watchdog Role): Free speech allows the press and citizens to expose government wrongdoing. This helps keep the government honest and accountable. Examples like Watergate show how important this is for democracy.

6. Promote Tolerance: The paradox of free speech is that even the most hateful speech can foster a sense of community and understanding when protected. By engaging with diverse and sometimes offensive views, we learn to understand and tolerate differences.

7. Promote Innovation: Free speech is not just a conduit for ideas; it's a catalyst for societal progress. When ideas are allowed to flow freely, they spark creativity and innovation. A society that values and protects free speech is more likely to be dynamic and interesting, with individuals fearlessly exploring new and exciting ideas, paving the way for a brighter future.

8. Protect Dissent: This is about protecting minority opinions. Even if an idea is unpopular, it should still be heard. This ensures that the majority doesn't just rule our system and respects different viewpoints.

In today's digital age, social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook have become essential in showcasing the marketplace of ideas, providing a space for people to share different opinions and information. However, it also presents challenges, such as the spread of false information. Moreover, free speech has a new political dimension in the digital landscape. It allows politicians to connect with voters and engage in discussions while raising concerns about shared information's quality and accuracy. Online news and investigative journalism were also crucial in checking government power and ensuring officials are held accountable. Despite its challenges, social media also significantly promotes tolerance by providing a platform for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard, ultimately fostering a more empathetic society.

Blog Post #2 - RECITATION - The Founding Era & the Idea of America.

Before I watched the videos, I had a basic understanding of what the Supreme Court does. I knew that it was one of the most critical parts of our government. I understood that the Court makes decisions about laws and whether they fit within the Constitution. I also knew the name of Chief Justice John Marshall, but I had no idea about his impact or why he was important.

After watching parts one and two of the videos, I learned much more about the Supreme Court and John Marshall's influence. He served as Chief Justice from 1801 to 1835. During his time in this position, he significantly strengthened the power and influence of the Supreme Court. 

I learned that the Supreme Court is crucial in protecting our constitutional rights. Its decisions can impact many aspects of American life, from civil rights to economic policies. The Supreme Court needs to be independent and not influenced by politics. This helps ensure that its rulings are fair and based on the law. The most surprising thing I learned was how the justices work together. They have intense discussions and debates, which involve interpreting the law and considering their personal beliefs and ethics. This showed me that justices are real people with a lot of responsibility.

The videos changed my perception of the Supreme Court by highlighting its foundational role in maintaining the U.S. government's power balance. I now see the Supreme Court as a legal entity and a dynamic institution that has continuously adapted to uphold justice and constitutional integrity. The Court is crucial in ensuring that the principles of the Constitution are applied fairly and consistently over time. This understanding has given me a deeper appreciation of the Court's role in American democracy and the importance of its decisions in shaping the country's future.

TOP FIVE SOURCES OF NEWS AND INFORMATION

 TOP FIVE SOURCES OF NEWS AND INFORMATION

I have chosen TikTok, LinkedIn, Reddit, Snapchat, and Instagram as my top five sources. While many people do not find them reliable, I have found these apps to be the most interesting and informative for my age and personality to understand the news.

TikTok (link) is a dynamic platform where users can discover a wide range of content, including news and educational videos. Many reputable news organizations and influencers use TikTok to share quick updates, explain complex topics, and engage with younger audiences through short, engaging videos. It's a great way to stay informed about current events, trends, and social issues in a fun and easily digestible format. I recommend TikTok for its accessibility and the diverse perspectives it offers, which can broaden your understanding of the world.

LinkedIn (link) is not just a professional networking site, it's a treasure trove of industry news and insights. It's not just about connecting with professionals, but also about staying updated on current events, career advice, and industry trends. This platform is a goldmine for those who want to stay informed about developments in various fields, learn from experts, and get inspired for personal and professional growth. If you're someone who likes to combine their news consumption with career-oriented content, LinkedIn is the place to be.

Reddit (link) is a platform that can be overwhelming for many, but for me, it's a perfect fit. With its diverse subreddits dedicated to news, such as r/news, r/worldnews, and r/AskReddit, I can share and discuss the latest headlines. The platform's interactive nature allows me to engage in discussions, ask questions, and get diverse perspectives on current events. This community-driven approach offers a unique way to stay updated and see what issues are important to people worldwide. 

Snapchat (link) has a story option where more famous and inspirational people's posts can be highlighted, and through this app, I have found it best to get news pertaining to people my age and influence. It features channels from various news outlets like NBC News and BuzzFeed News. These channels provide short, engaging news storys that are easy for people to get quick news and keep the attention span long enough. The format is interactive and designed to capture attention quickly, making it a great way for teenagers to stay updated on current events and pop culture in a fun, interactive way.

Instagram (link) (like Snapchat) is an all-visual platform where many news organizations and influencers share pictures and video shorts (reels) to spread news updates and educational content. Accounts like @bbcnews, @cnn, and @nowthisnews use Instagram to post bite-sized, visually appealing news snippets that are easily digestible. Instagram offers a way to stay informed through engaging visuals and stories, making news consumption more appealing and accessible.