INTERNET DEBATE QUESTIONS

1. Based on this debate and previous readings What Definition of democracy do you feel is most fitting for us to use in-conjunction our growing reliance and integration of digital networked technologies? 
- Based on the readings and debate, Andrew Keen's and Farhod Manjoo's definition of democracy is most appropriate for us to use in conjunction with our growing reliance and integration of digital networked technologies. Many of us don't take the time to really question the validity the information holds. Instead most people internalize opinion as fact and get facts misconscrewed. The layer of secrecy creates proctection from those who do publish demeening, and ill legitamate content on the web. Keen clearly states that he fears democratized media will "threaten the very future of our cultural institutions". So it is most fitting to lean towards a represenative style of internet in the time to come. 


2. How does your answer to #1 fit into the unchecked nature of Web 2.0 technologies, and what are some tangible examples of this? Do you feel this is an important issue that needs to be addressed further?
- My answer for number one fits well as a solution to the element of content being uncheck in the new web 2.0.People now have no restrictions and guidelines for posting content. People also now see the internet as more than digital encyclopedias. The internet is now a primary resource to gain affection and maintain relationships. When you mix the ungoverned component of the new web 2.0 disaster can strike in the worst way. Cyberbullying is even more dangerous because how much more the internet is apart of our lives now. Sites like myspace and facebook and bring us together, but those with malice and no restriction behind the keyboard can inflict pain on others beyond return. 


http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2010/10/01/2010-10-01_tyler_clementis_parents_open_up_on_rutgers_freshmans_suicide_after_gay_encounter.html


3. Define and describe the phenomenon of the Media echo-chamber as described in the Internet Debates. What are some examples of this silo effect, and do you believe it is an issue that needs to be addressed? Why or Why not?
- A media echo chamber is the idea of only similar opinions on a topic being posted via some type of media (like blogs or youtube vids). As a result, we don't hear the other side of an argument and lose out on another point of view. A great example of this are many cult like and close minded blogs. The one i listed is a white supremacist blog that is beyond ignorant. The site just further reinforces their agendas and ideals, instead of allowing content from another outlook on issues, which is in essence is the silo effect. It is definitely an issue that needs to be addressed because in order to progress as nation (and people in general) and grow we have to face what we don't agree with. By doing this we can gain insight on how others may perceive the same topic, and learn from the experience.  
http://blogbullet.wordpress.com/category/whiteness/white-supremacy/
4. What are some ways that expertise and authority could be (or is being) enforced on the Internet? Who would be behind these forces? Why do you believe are they are needed or not needed? 
-Yes I do believe content on the Internet should be regulated with reason. The facts given out should be check and back by some research.http://www.factmonster.com is a great way to check facts online before posting info that maybe out someones expertise. Barring total control over Internet-connected computers is almost impossible and unnecessary, but if we regulate the facts we put online and stay away from being malicious then web 2.0 can have longevity


5.Give a through example of an adaptation or improvement made by a of a social, political, or cultural group, government, business or individual to keep up with changing nature of the Internet. 
- An example of an adaptation or improvement made by a of a social, political, or cultural group, government, business or individual to keep up with changing nature of the Internet would be Marist college. Marist College's student government now has a twitter account, and facebook page. This adaptation to the new trend in technology has allowed Marist to stay relevant with the influx of new scholars that are already fully acquainted with the sites.


6.Is democracy threatened by the unchecked nature of the internet?
At the core of democracy there is the ever-present right of freedom of speech. Without this no matter how ill willed some people use it, this country will not have the advances it has today. So no i do not think democracy is threatened by the unchecked nature of the internet.