Assignment: Write an approximately 5 page paper (typed, double-spaced or the handwritten equivalent) on one of the topics below.
1. In "Invisible Technologies," Neil Postman argues that language is a technology and that "Language is pure ideology." Explain what Postman means by these claims and why he makes them. Are these claims correct? Defend your view.What I Expect: A clear, well written essay in which you carefully address your chosen topic. While no specific portion of your grade will be based on your grammar/writing style, a paper must be well written (in both of these ways) in order to receive a high mark. For more writing advice or information on referencing, see the attached handout.2. In "Women and the Assessment of Technology," Corlann Gee Bush criticizes the idea of the 'tech-fix' and the mindset that lies behind it. Explain what these things are and why Bush criticizes them. Are her criticisms convincing? Defend your view.
3. In "Ideas/Artifacts and Political Culture," Langdon Winner argues that we often fail to appreciate the political significance and social cost of new technologies. In light of this, he proposes three guiding principles for the implementation of new technology (see pp. 112-113). Explain and discuss Winner's view & his three principles. Do they need revising? Is he exaggerating the political/social significance of technology? Defend your view.
4. The events of Sept. 11, 2001 have caused great outrage in Canada and elsewhere. Much of this outrage has a moral tone to it. Many think that terrorist acts aimed specifically at civilians can never be morally justified. How should we think about a claim like this? Does it simply mean that we do not approve of such actions in our culture or is there some deeper sense in which such actions are wrong regardless of what our culture or any other might think about them? Defend your view regarding the moral objectivist/moral relativist controversy by reference to this example.
Policy on Late Assignments: Assignments are due at the beginning of class on the date specified for the assignment. Late assignments will be accepted with no penalty if accompanied by a reasonable personal or medical excuse. (I reserve the right to ask for documentation to back up the excuse). Assignments handed in without a reasonable excuse will be penalized at a rate of 2 points per day late. Late assignments may not be revised and resubmitted.