Rachel's topic concerned the portrayal of mentally ill individuals, in particular the portrayal of schizophrenia. It was particularly interesting to know that the portrayal of mental illness has changed throughout time. Which makes sense, it will fit the ideas of the current time it is produced in. What concerns me is how much of an impact these images truly shape our perceptions. As Rachel explained, a large percentage of our time is spent watching television. While in an educational setting it would be more likely to have an accurate portrayal, film and media often exaggerate and entirely get a portrayal wrong. This is crucial for stigmatized/oppressed communities who already face this within society. These wrong portrayals only intensify this fact.
Katie Ann's topic was particularly interesting to me because I had heard the claim that E-Harmony would not let gay and lesbian identified people use their dating service because the research had only been done on straight couples. I had always known the website to not be queer friendly in any manner, so it was very shocking to hear they had developed another site. I wondered why Eharmony developed this new website- was it for an additional source of profit? For example, in my environmental sociology course we talk about producers "green washing" a particular product. I'm wondering if here this company tried to appeal to gay and lesbian people for a better profit. I find this humorous after being noted as a homophobic company. I had yet to hear of Compatible Partners and I'm curious if there is a backlash against the site because of it being owned by eHarmony. Katie Ann noted the differences between eHarmony and Compatible Partners regarding marriage, religion, and children. We can see from this that many offline "real world" depictions translate to online websites.
David's topic concerned high commercial dating websites have essentially turned queer bodies into pornography. This was particularly interesting after Katie Ann's presentation because we can begin to analyze what type of market exists for queer dating websites. Popular websites for gay men to connect and date essentially make the experience into a sexual encounter. Even in the personal information sexual encounters are made apparent by asking the user about penis size. Weekly submissions are used to create pornography. Gay men are over sexualized and their experiences are essentially turned into pornography.
Kelsey's topic concerned cyber bullying as a relatively new area gaining attention from schools and parents. The concept of bullying has shifted out of the advances in technology, making bullying less distinguishable. Many parents who do not have the same skills in technology are isolated from their children and unaware that bullying is occurring. While schools can intervene to a certain extent with use of their own technology, children who use phones are always plugged in to social life. In my opinion, a step toward helping this situation is for parents to become more involved in how much technology their children consume. Children truly don't need to have high tech phones or be plugged into the internet at all times. When I addressed the issue of the digital divide I advocated for children to learn how to use a computer in age appropriate phases. Children do need to learn about technology but in a productive manner. Being constantly tied into social networks is a frightening concept for me because I didn't have a cell phone until late high school. Middle school especially is a time where children are overly concerned about others and I do see harm in being constantly accessible through phones and technology.
Leah's topic concerned the media portrayal of women in the military. The military generally is associated with extreme masculinity. Leah discussed how the military may use tactics to appeal to women which include not being in combat situations, less risky occupations. How should the media portray women in the media? In my opinion the media does not often note the reality of many women in the media, which includes sexual assault and harassment. A large number of women are assaulted and harassed within their own military group. Leah noted that women aren't allowed to be feminine and I've heard another side to this as well. A woman visited UNH a couple of years ago to speak out against Don't Ask, Don't Tell and also discussed her experience as a woman in the military. She was more masculine but pressured to appear feminine. I'm unsure of the current media portrayal of women or if there is much of a conversation concerning these important issues.
Kenlyne's topic concerned cyber cheating and how the internet has change the way in which we think about infidelity. There are blurred lines of trust relating to this topic as I mentioned in my previous blog post. Where everything can be hidden or deleted it seems our relationship must be strong to make it through possible doubts. As Kenlyne noted, the internet has also altered the way we can deal with situations of infidelity. In the past some may have confronted this person face to face, but what do you do when the other person lives so far away? This topic is a great example of how technology is reshaping the way we interact online and perceive trust in our relationships.
Dani's topic concerned the concept of community in relation to online websites such as YouTube. Dani noted that the internet has been used as an example for and against bettering community. However, she also noted that the definition of community through technology, not necessarily for better or worse. Vlogging communities offer the possibility of connecting with others both online and offline, as many are initially connecting online and then later meeting offline. I think it would be interesting to discuss how the definition of community has shifted throughout time and that this is another step.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
Presentations 11/30/10
Here's some feedback on the presentations from our last class...
Jayne's discussion of cyber cheating through Facebook was a thought provoking topic. It inspired me to take the topic further and question the lines of jealousy and privacy within a relationship. Some of the questions that crossed my mind are: as technology becomes a main source of communication and social networking, do we in turn become dissociated from our personal connections? Where does the trust lie in our relationships when we need to worry about who our partner is texting and communicating with through technology. In another light, how much freedom and trust do we need to leave with our partner? The lines of privacy become blurred within the internet and social networking sites such as Facebook as is. Technology does not necessarily encourage one's partner to cheat but does make it simple. Our partner can be so discreet with deleted texts and personal passwords so that we may never know who they are connecting with. This is yet another area where technology and socialization become blurred because the face of cheating has changed through discreetness.
Niquesha's discussion surrounding homophobia being linked to Black communities through the church was complex. This brought to my mind the discussion after Still Black where a statement was made that homophobia is mostly present in Black religious communities. However, as David noted, we must consider why only Black religious communities are depicted as homophobic. As mentioned in class there are numerous faiths which are known for being extremely homophobic yet these are rarely mentioned. For this topic I believe that establishing who benefits from creating Black communities as homophobic is very important to addressing the overall topic. What purpose does it serve that White religious communities that are homophobic aren't judged as a whole while Black religious communities are? As Courtney said, "the Black community can be whatever you'd like them to be." Could this be just another distraction so that homophobia appears more acceptable and/or less of an issue within particular religious communities? While keeping this important side of the issue in mind I believe we can then begin to examine the representation of queerness within Black communities and the role religion does play in this, not because we can truthfully say "black communities are more homophobic and religious" but we can recognize the forces contributing to this stereotype and what the reality looks like.
Danielle's topic regarding women in video games was also extremely interesting due to how mainstream "gaming" has become. While some can acknowledge that media such as pornography desensitizes consumers to violence and objectification, the argument that "it's only a game" is prevalent. When we only regard these images, games, and videos on the surface level it entirely ignores the psychology behind our consumption. Video games do not exist in a vacuum, they exist within a culture that promotes rape, dehumanizes women, and encourages violence against women. Our consumption of these video games and depictions of women is not mindless, our brains register and respond. When we normalize the concept of women as not "real" characters but sexual objects or "bitches we can fuck and kill" that is stored within our mindset. These concepts do not appear in video games out of creativity nor do they appear in the attitude and actions of others out of thin air. This topic is incredibly interesting because it's reckless to ignore the messages we receive through mass media.
Rebecca's topic on the power we invest in doctors brought to my mind how medicine and health have become a business. This idea is not only related to doctor visits but health insurance and prescription medicine. Our country spends an incredible amount of money on products that are meant to alter our image or make us healthier. However, how much faith do we put in the word of a doctor since health care has become commercialized? Are we cared for by our doctors or simply another dollar sign? Technology has played an essential role in the divide between health professionals and the average person as information has been made accessible at all times on the internet. I would also consider what role the digital divide has in relation to this topic. I specifically wonder if those who do not have access to a vast amount of information are less likely to object to a doctor's wishes. Is it technology or the concept of being a dollar sign that has many individuals questioning the accuracy of health professionals?
Dana's topic on pregnant women using the internet for advice relating to health care brought to questions to my mind that were similar to those in relation to Rebecca's topic. I think it is important to consider why there is so much mistrust in the medical community that many turn to the internet. Also, is the information we are receiving quality? Or are we looking to find websites that confirm our personal opinions? This topic was presented in the manner that having the ability to retrieve information through the internet is empowering to women who do not have to rely on health professionals. While I do view this as empowering because women can connect with one another and do research on their own, I'm always skeptical of idealizing the internet. For this topic I'd also be interested in what role the digital divide plays, if any.
Emily's topic addressed how racism and homophobia that appears online in social networking and dating websites. As discussed in class, the creation of the internet was thought to be groundbreaking because of anonymity. One would have no race, class, gender, or orientation while interacting with others on the internet. As I've mentioned in regard to video games, technology does not exist in a vacuum outside of culture. We clearly see instances of racism, sexism, and heterosexism on the internet that reflect our "real world" back to us. For this topic I think it would be interesting to analyze the disconnect between our conception of the internet and the real world. There seems to be a strong divide where people feel they have a life on the internet and then a "real" life. Perhaps this is why many are so skeptical to believe that these real life "isms" hold a place on the web?
Jayne's discussion of cyber cheating through Facebook was a thought provoking topic. It inspired me to take the topic further and question the lines of jealousy and privacy within a relationship. Some of the questions that crossed my mind are: as technology becomes a main source of communication and social networking, do we in turn become dissociated from our personal connections? Where does the trust lie in our relationships when we need to worry about who our partner is texting and communicating with through technology. In another light, how much freedom and trust do we need to leave with our partner? The lines of privacy become blurred within the internet and social networking sites such as Facebook as is. Technology does not necessarily encourage one's partner to cheat but does make it simple. Our partner can be so discreet with deleted texts and personal passwords so that we may never know who they are connecting with. This is yet another area where technology and socialization become blurred because the face of cheating has changed through discreetness.
Niquesha's discussion surrounding homophobia being linked to Black communities through the church was complex. This brought to my mind the discussion after Still Black where a statement was made that homophobia is mostly present in Black religious communities. However, as David noted, we must consider why only Black religious communities are depicted as homophobic. As mentioned in class there are numerous faiths which are known for being extremely homophobic yet these are rarely mentioned. For this topic I believe that establishing who benefits from creating Black communities as homophobic is very important to addressing the overall topic. What purpose does it serve that White religious communities that are homophobic aren't judged as a whole while Black religious communities are? As Courtney said, "the Black community can be whatever you'd like them to be." Could this be just another distraction so that homophobia appears more acceptable and/or less of an issue within particular religious communities? While keeping this important side of the issue in mind I believe we can then begin to examine the representation of queerness within Black communities and the role religion does play in this, not because we can truthfully say "black communities are more homophobic and religious" but we can recognize the forces contributing to this stereotype and what the reality looks like.
Danielle's topic regarding women in video games was also extremely interesting due to how mainstream "gaming" has become. While some can acknowledge that media such as pornography desensitizes consumers to violence and objectification, the argument that "it's only a game" is prevalent. When we only regard these images, games, and videos on the surface level it entirely ignores the psychology behind our consumption. Video games do not exist in a vacuum, they exist within a culture that promotes rape, dehumanizes women, and encourages violence against women. Our consumption of these video games and depictions of women is not mindless, our brains register and respond. When we normalize the concept of women as not "real" characters but sexual objects or "bitches we can fuck and kill" that is stored within our mindset. These concepts do not appear in video games out of creativity nor do they appear in the attitude and actions of others out of thin air. This topic is incredibly interesting because it's reckless to ignore the messages we receive through mass media.
Rebecca's topic on the power we invest in doctors brought to my mind how medicine and health have become a business. This idea is not only related to doctor visits but health insurance and prescription medicine. Our country spends an incredible amount of money on products that are meant to alter our image or make us healthier. However, how much faith do we put in the word of a doctor since health care has become commercialized? Are we cared for by our doctors or simply another dollar sign? Technology has played an essential role in the divide between health professionals and the average person as information has been made accessible at all times on the internet. I would also consider what role the digital divide has in relation to this topic. I specifically wonder if those who do not have access to a vast amount of information are less likely to object to a doctor's wishes. Is it technology or the concept of being a dollar sign that has many individuals questioning the accuracy of health professionals?
Dana's topic on pregnant women using the internet for advice relating to health care brought to questions to my mind that were similar to those in relation to Rebecca's topic. I think it is important to consider why there is so much mistrust in the medical community that many turn to the internet. Also, is the information we are receiving quality? Or are we looking to find websites that confirm our personal opinions? This topic was presented in the manner that having the ability to retrieve information through the internet is empowering to women who do not have to rely on health professionals. While I do view this as empowering because women can connect with one another and do research on their own, I'm always skeptical of idealizing the internet. For this topic I'd also be interested in what role the digital divide plays, if any.
Emily's topic addressed how racism and homophobia that appears online in social networking and dating websites. As discussed in class, the creation of the internet was thought to be groundbreaking because of anonymity. One would have no race, class, gender, or orientation while interacting with others on the internet. As I've mentioned in regard to video games, technology does not exist in a vacuum outside of culture. We clearly see instances of racism, sexism, and heterosexism on the internet that reflect our "real world" back to us. For this topic I think it would be interesting to analyze the disconnect between our conception of the internet and the real world. There seems to be a strong divide where people feel they have a life on the internet and then a "real" life. Perhaps this is why many are so skeptical to believe that these real life "isms" hold a place on the web?
Friday, November 26, 2010
The Digital Divide: Current Civil Rights Issue?
The Digital Divide concerns the growing gap between those who can use and comprehend technology (essentially, using a computer) and those who are not able to do so. This issue does not simply concern being able to use the basic functions of a computer, but having the skills to navigate technology as a resource. Those who have not had opportunities for education surrounding technology are placed at a disadvantage in a society that values computers as a source of knowledge and communication. Currently, many employers use the internet to look for new employees and the majority of job applications are done online. This puts those who have never been provided education on how to navigate the internet at an advantage of missing job opportunities. Along with employment struggles, the use of a computer and the internet also provide a great source of information and social networking. In higher education, having a computer is vital as grades, assignments, and information concerning classes are typically posted online. Using a computer has the potential to be utilized in a productive manner and is increasingly required as a skill in employment and education. Due to the increased value placed on technology skills along with the vast amount of information on the internet, I do consider this a civil rights issue. To have such a gap regarding an important skill undoubtedly puts many at a disadvantage.
To address the issue of the digital divide, early education needs to provide comprehensive, age appropriate experience with computers. If this began at an early age and continued throughout elementary school, middle school, and high school these skills could be expanded on and applied to appropriate situations. Simply providing schools with computers does not fully address the complexity of the situation at hand. As discussed in class, this may allow students to develop web navigating skills but the majority of the time this results in these skills not being used in an educational manner. Students need the education to utilize computer resources in a scholarly and professional manner. If this were to be provided the growing "skill set" which includes technology experience and comprehension would not pose such a threat in regard to employment opportunities. The funding for this program and technology would be difficult for many schools and there is a need for an initiative to take action and raise funds. For adults, courses should be offered in community spaces that are flexible to work schedules. I realize that the manner in which I initially address this issue doesn't take into account those who are no longer enrolled in school. Community based courses may also encourage individuals struggling with technology to connect with others and share experiences. I imagine these courses to be focused on navigating the web for information, social networking, and increasing employment opportunities.
In my experience with technology I have been incredibly privileged. I remember having a home computer when I was in elementary school. I had some experience with computers in my early education but then the subject was dropped until high school where I was required to take a basic computer course. My middle school and high school did provide computers in the library for students to complete projects on and search for information online. While I wasn't provided the most comprehensive education surrounding computer programs, I learned by completing projects and on my home computer. I was provided an opportunity that many are not. In my college career my knowledge of computers has put me at an advantage and I cannot imagine not knowing how to do so. From the application process to course assignments, a great deal of my college experience has been on the internet. Also, my current job involves being able to perform basic functions on the computer. To not have received education or experience with this technology would have set me at a great disadvantage.
To address the issue of the digital divide, early education needs to provide comprehensive, age appropriate experience with computers. If this began at an early age and continued throughout elementary school, middle school, and high school these skills could be expanded on and applied to appropriate situations. Simply providing schools with computers does not fully address the complexity of the situation at hand. As discussed in class, this may allow students to develop web navigating skills but the majority of the time this results in these skills not being used in an educational manner. Students need the education to utilize computer resources in a scholarly and professional manner. If this were to be provided the growing "skill set" which includes technology experience and comprehension would not pose such a threat in regard to employment opportunities. The funding for this program and technology would be difficult for many schools and there is a need for an initiative to take action and raise funds. For adults, courses should be offered in community spaces that are flexible to work schedules. I realize that the manner in which I initially address this issue doesn't take into account those who are no longer enrolled in school. Community based courses may also encourage individuals struggling with technology to connect with others and share experiences. I imagine these courses to be focused on navigating the web for information, social networking, and increasing employment opportunities.
In my experience with technology I have been incredibly privileged. I remember having a home computer when I was in elementary school. I had some experience with computers in my early education but then the subject was dropped until high school where I was required to take a basic computer course. My middle school and high school did provide computers in the library for students to complete projects on and search for information online. While I wasn't provided the most comprehensive education surrounding computer programs, I learned by completing projects and on my home computer. I was provided an opportunity that many are not. In my college career my knowledge of computers has put me at an advantage and I cannot imagine not knowing how to do so. From the application process to course assignments, a great deal of my college experience has been on the internet. Also, my current job involves being able to perform basic functions on the computer. To not have received education or experience with this technology would have set me at a great disadvantage.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Paper Proposal & Annotated Bibliography
Proposal:
In my final paper I will focus on identity work through the use of the internet. In particular I will focus on teenage trans men who are actively involved in video logging (vlogs). These vlogs not only serve to document personal transition but to create online community and support. I will explore formation of gender identity and expression for those involved (either by creating or commenting) in these vlogging communities. My thesis being that active engagement in online vlogs encourages exploration of identity surrounding gender. This particularly influences the trans community where transgender living is rarely (if ever) represented in the media. Without any representation, trans teenagers are left with few safe spaces to create a dialogue about gender that isn't oppressive and restrictive. Those who create vlogs often reach out to others who may feel isolated to contact them if they are in need of advice. Vloggers often provide resources for trans friendly doctors, therapists, and clinics as well as personal stories. I argue that the personal component to these videos is what truly strengthens online community because it provides the opportunity for others to connect a concept with a story and a face. This is not to say that an individuals documented experience online should be the face of the teenage trans community. To refute my argument I will also be skeptical of idealizing online connections due to the digital divide and who has the opportunity to participate in such communities.
Works Cited:
Shapiro, Eve. Gender Circuits: Bodies and Identities in a Technological Age. New York, NY: Routledge, 2010. Print.
Bakardjieva, M. "Virtual Togetherness: an Everyday-life Perspective." Media, Culture & Society 25.3 (2003): 291-313. Print.
In my final paper I will focus on identity work through the use of the internet. In particular I will focus on teenage trans men who are actively involved in video logging (vlogs). These vlogs not only serve to document personal transition but to create online community and support. I will explore formation of gender identity and expression for those involved (either by creating or commenting) in these vlogging communities. My thesis being that active engagement in online vlogs encourages exploration of identity surrounding gender. This particularly influences the trans community where transgender living is rarely (if ever) represented in the media. Without any representation, trans teenagers are left with few safe spaces to create a dialogue about gender that isn't oppressive and restrictive. Those who create vlogs often reach out to others who may feel isolated to contact them if they are in need of advice. Vloggers often provide resources for trans friendly doctors, therapists, and clinics as well as personal stories. I argue that the personal component to these videos is what truly strengthens online community because it provides the opportunity for others to connect a concept with a story and a face. This is not to say that an individuals documented experience online should be the face of the teenage trans community. To refute my argument I will also be skeptical of idealizing online connections due to the digital divide and who has the opportunity to participate in such communities.
Works Cited:
Shapiro, Eve. Gender Circuits: Bodies and Identities in a Technological Age. New York, NY: Routledge, 2010. Print.
Bakardjieva, M. "Virtual Togetherness: an Everyday-life Perspective." Media, Culture & Society 25.3 (2003): 291-313. Print.
Friday, November 12, 2010
"Information Overload" Alexis Gumbs Visits UNH
Recently, Alexis Gumbs was interviewed by Courtney Marshall at the University of New Hampshire as part of a dialogue surrounding technology. Alexis began by reading a poem and speaking to the concept of information overload, as we are constantly bombarded with information in this fast paced world. We are overloaded with messages from countless sides telling us what to wear, what to drive, what to believe, how to live. It is difficult to decipher the messages we see today not only through media depictions but in the vast space of the internet. Our lives are symbolically split between how our profiles on social networking sites depict us and how we feel we are in real life. However, our internet depictions are not so separate from our offline experience and the internet is not entirely an escape from the outside world. The two may be combined which is a concept which Gumbs article "We Are the One's We've Been Waiting For" speaks to.
Online activism through blogging and networking keeps important words alive. Gumbs and Bailey note that the words of Black feminists are not still thriving due to coincidence but because these feminists took action and invested themselves in activism. Blogging communities truly resemble a grassroots effort to organize but through the internet have the capability to expand the number of individuals participating. I admire the effort Gumbs has put forth to respect her elders work and utilize these techniques in a manner that speaks to the technological advances of the present. In my opinion, this work is crucial because within feminism we must not forget the contributions of our elders and how advances have been made. I've often heard that my generation does not work nearly as hard or isn't as involved in activist work. Hearing Alexis Gumbs speak inspired an entirely different train of thought for me. That current generations are not necessarily unmotivated or lazy but perhaps activism is shifting to occupy a different space. A great deal of activism is being conducted through internet communities through blogging and vlogging. This is not to say that these individuals don't take issues "to the street" but that organizing within groups looks different from past methods.
Online activism through blogging and networking keeps important words alive. Gumbs and Bailey note that the words of Black feminists are not still thriving due to coincidence but because these feminists took action and invested themselves in activism. Blogging communities truly resemble a grassroots effort to organize but through the internet have the capability to expand the number of individuals participating. I admire the effort Gumbs has put forth to respect her elders work and utilize these techniques in a manner that speaks to the technological advances of the present. In my opinion, this work is crucial because within feminism we must not forget the contributions of our elders and how advances have been made. I've often heard that my generation does not work nearly as hard or isn't as involved in activist work. Hearing Alexis Gumbs speak inspired an entirely different train of thought for me. That current generations are not necessarily unmotivated or lazy but perhaps activism is shifting to occupy a different space. A great deal of activism is being conducted through internet communities through blogging and vlogging. This is not to say that these individuals don't take issues "to the street" but that organizing within groups looks different from past methods.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Final Paper Proposal
For my final paper I'm going to explore the influence of vlogs on identity formation among FTM teenagers (13-19). I will be mainly viewing these vlogs on youtube, where many trans men document their transition and share their experiences. From these individual "channels" many unique online communities have formed, including "collab channels" where a few individuals share space and each share their opinion on a particular topic or question. The question I will address is how vlogging has changed identity formation on FTM teenagers due to the virtual community which they are exposed. This technology is fairly new along with the concept of recording videos of oneself throughout transition to share them with the virtual world. I'm particularly interested in teenagers for this subject because many have not been able to go to therapy, have surgery, or start testosterone. Of course, not every FTM identified individual desires hormones or surgery which is an important factor to consider. Also, there are trans men exploring identity at later points in life past the teenage years. Rather, I'm interested in how the exposure to other transgender men through watching video documentation of their transition shapes identity formation. While the individual watching these videos may not desire hormones, surgery, therapy, etc the information is still being made available through videos. My thesis being that vlogging encourages identity exploration among transgender FTM teenagers.
In Shapiro's Gender Circuits she includes a case study of transgender individuals organizing online. In this case study it is stated that the internet was a crucial space of transgender organizing where personal questions and stories could be shared relatively free from the fear of violence. Shapiro comments that "this practice of sharing life histories is an opportunity for individuals to learn and deploy the discourses-in-practice required to construct authentic transgender identities." I will re-examine the work Shapiro has on identity work being done online with the lens of youtube vlogs as the direct focus. I will also incorporate other sources focusing on transgender youth and community forming and the impact of virtual community on identity.
Some questions I'm going to address and consider in relation to my paper are:
How has vlogging influenced community building in FTM teenagers?
How have virtual communities strengthened the narrative of identity formation among FTM teenagers? (Resources and real life experience surrounding hormones, surgery, documents, job experience, coming out process, passing, etc)
How does vlogging provide resources that are valuable for FTM teenagers? Are watching videos enough? Where does virtual communication end? I'm asking this because one of the vloggers I subscribe to also answers questions people have for him on an alternate website. He also answers e-mails for those who want to discuss topics discreetly. His mother also answers e-mails and made a youtube video with him for parents who have transgender teenagers.
In Shapiro's Gender Circuits she includes a case study of transgender individuals organizing online. In this case study it is stated that the internet was a crucial space of transgender organizing where personal questions and stories could be shared relatively free from the fear of violence. Shapiro comments that "this practice of sharing life histories is an opportunity for individuals to learn and deploy the discourses-in-practice required to construct authentic transgender identities." I will re-examine the work Shapiro has on identity work being done online with the lens of youtube vlogs as the direct focus. I will also incorporate other sources focusing on transgender youth and community forming and the impact of virtual community on identity.
Some questions I'm going to address and consider in relation to my paper are:
How has vlogging influenced community building in FTM teenagers?
How have virtual communities strengthened the narrative of identity formation among FTM teenagers? (Resources and real life experience surrounding hormones, surgery, documents, job experience, coming out process, passing, etc)
How does vlogging provide resources that are valuable for FTM teenagers? Are watching videos enough? Where does virtual communication end? I'm asking this because one of the vloggers I subscribe to also answers questions people have for him on an alternate website. He also answers e-mails for those who want to discuss topics discreetly. His mother also answers e-mails and made a youtube video with him for parents who have transgender teenagers.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Feministing!
I visit the website Feministing quite often to hear about current events through a feminist lens. The site posts responses to political and social happenings and users are generally more critical and analytic. The site is titled "Young Feminists: Blogging, Organizing, Kicking Ass" which sums up the feel of the website incredibly well. Jessica Valenti, one of the organizers and bloggers published a book to reach out to younger women who have never heard of feminism or have only heard negative comments. The work of this website keeps users updated on the current events while also encouraging critical thinking concerning major issues. Users can comment on posts to respond, debate, or get in touch with others. Users are also able to submit a post of their own on a specific topic or current event they feel is important.
The work of this website relates to the concept of "virtual togetherness" in that young feminists have a space to turn to which is critical yet fun to be involved in. In turn these young women are involved in the events that are happening and perhaps inspired to take action surrounding particular issues they become aware of. As I've mentioned, the site keeps discussion open and extremely relevant which encourages young women to participate. Users can also connect this website with Twitter and Facebook to share interesting articles with friends, family, and classmates. Not only does this blogging site encourage young women to explore feminism but also expands their ability to think critically and comprehend important issues.
We need to get our young feminists involved and critically thinking about the world around them!
The work of this website relates to the concept of "virtual togetherness" in that young feminists have a space to turn to which is critical yet fun to be involved in. In turn these young women are involved in the events that are happening and perhaps inspired to take action surrounding particular issues they become aware of. As I've mentioned, the site keeps discussion open and extremely relevant which encourages young women to participate. Users can also connect this website with Twitter and Facebook to share interesting articles with friends, family, and classmates. Not only does this blogging site encourage young women to explore feminism but also expands their ability to think critically and comprehend important issues.
We need to get our young feminists involved and critically thinking about the world around them!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Friday, October 1, 2010
Racialized Depictions in Popular Media
To support Nakamura's point that in relation to technology in film people of color are represented as "primitive and sexual if black, and machinic and inherently technological if Asian"I have two examples: one from a popular hit television series and another from a prominent film. Both of these examples relay that media depicts racialized representations of characters and incorporating technology does not change these images. I will examine the manner in which Glee and Avatar both support racialized images of characters in relation to technology.
The hit series Glee has recently started its second season after winning many awards during the past year. A good portion of these awards are diversity based and are congratulating Glee for portraying a diverse set of characters meant to be high school students in a glee club. However, while Glee does attempt to portray diversity amongst the characters it appears that this is done for the sole purpose of such awards and to make viewers feel as if they are progressive and inclusive. This can be seen in the way that only the white, straight students are prominent characters in the show. Glee typically uses non-white and the one gay male character as side stories running off those of the white students. During the premiere of the second season, Glee blatantly portrayed the stereotype of the "tech-savvy Asian student."Of course, this was merely a side story into one of the main white characters (Artie) life, but nonetheless Artie's once girlfriend Tina had dumped him after going to a camp as a counselor for Asian youth. This camp is depicted through Artie describing how "heartbroken" he is while relaying what has happened between him and Tina. In his depiction, his ex-girlfriend is in a room full of Asian children who are all using computers. Her and Mike (again, an Asian male) are flirting while Artie describes the situation as a "camp for tech-savvy Asians." He literally uses the phrase while discussing what has happened. This is from a show with diversity awards that hopes to make the white viewer feel inclusive and progressive for watching a series that includes people of color while the majority of the time these students are side stories who are blatantly stereotyped.
The other example that immediately came to my mind while reading Nakamura's quote was the movie Avatar. Like Glee, Avatar has received a tremendous amount of recognition and popularity. This film is thought to groundbreaking, and the graphics may be, but when it comes to racial interactions Avatar is overly simplistic. Avatar creates the story that embodies the white savior message as well as portraying native people as savage. Essentially the storyline follows military and scientists who have two separate agendas upon landing on the planet Pandora. The military wants to take over the land and force the Na'vi tribe to move out while the scientists are interested in learning about the Na'vi and Pandora. Both parties (military and scientists) use technology to accomplish these goals while the Na'vi people are thought to be too simplistic and barbaric to even compare. In the end it is the efforts of a white man who was once involved in the military operation which saves the Na'vi people on Pandora. Technology also plays a role in this characters actions to save Pandora because he uses an avatar to appear similar to members of the Na'vi and no longer considers himself a member of the military and a white man. This film is also meant to make the viewer feel progressive in the sense that most can tell that the actions of the military are wrong and inhumane. However, the idea of us vs. them and that only a white man with these skills in technology can ultimately save the land and people of Pandora only further depicts overly stereotyped and racialized images.
The hit series Glee has recently started its second season after winning many awards during the past year. A good portion of these awards are diversity based and are congratulating Glee for portraying a diverse set of characters meant to be high school students in a glee club. However, while Glee does attempt to portray diversity amongst the characters it appears that this is done for the sole purpose of such awards and to make viewers feel as if they are progressive and inclusive. This can be seen in the way that only the white, straight students are prominent characters in the show. Glee typically uses non-white and the one gay male character as side stories running off those of the white students. During the premiere of the second season, Glee blatantly portrayed the stereotype of the "tech-savvy Asian student."Of course, this was merely a side story into one of the main white characters (Artie) life, but nonetheless Artie's once girlfriend Tina had dumped him after going to a camp as a counselor for Asian youth. This camp is depicted through Artie describing how "heartbroken" he is while relaying what has happened between him and Tina. In his depiction, his ex-girlfriend is in a room full of Asian children who are all using computers. Her and Mike (again, an Asian male) are flirting while Artie describes the situation as a "camp for tech-savvy Asians." He literally uses the phrase while discussing what has happened. This is from a show with diversity awards that hopes to make the white viewer feel inclusive and progressive for watching a series that includes people of color while the majority of the time these students are side stories who are blatantly stereotyped.
The other example that immediately came to my mind while reading Nakamura's quote was the movie Avatar. Like Glee, Avatar has received a tremendous amount of recognition and popularity. This film is thought to groundbreaking, and the graphics may be, but when it comes to racial interactions Avatar is overly simplistic. Avatar creates the story that embodies the white savior message as well as portraying native people as savage. Essentially the storyline follows military and scientists who have two separate agendas upon landing on the planet Pandora. The military wants to take over the land and force the Na'vi tribe to move out while the scientists are interested in learning about the Na'vi and Pandora. Both parties (military and scientists) use technology to accomplish these goals while the Na'vi people are thought to be too simplistic and barbaric to even compare. In the end it is the efforts of a white man who was once involved in the military operation which saves the Na'vi people on Pandora. Technology also plays a role in this characters actions to save Pandora because he uses an avatar to appear similar to members of the Na'vi and no longer considers himself a member of the military and a white man. This film is also meant to make the viewer feel progressive in the sense that most can tell that the actions of the military are wrong and inhumane. However, the idea of us vs. them and that only a white man with these skills in technology can ultimately save the land and people of Pandora only further depicts overly stereotyped and racialized images.
Friday, September 17, 2010
stop porn & porn culture
On University Day, Dani, David and I interviewed six random people to hear multiple perspectives on the issue of pornography in public spaces. This conversation stems from an incident that occurred at the University of New Hampshire's library during the summer where a man was found viewing child pornography. This public library is a resource for students attending UNH and residents in surrounding towns. The questions we asked pertained to how they would respond if they saw someone in the library viewing pornography and if they feel restrictions should be applied to what websites can be accessed at the library. Here's what we found from the interviews:
The first individual we interviewed was a female graduate student in education. She had not heard about the event that occurred during the library this summer. She felt that viewing porn in a public space (like the library) was not appropriate and that restrictions should be enforced. She compared this to how public schools often block their students from visiting particular sites such as Myspace or Facebook. If she encountered someone viewing pornography in the library she told us that she would not hesitate to notify the library staff or confront the individual viewing pornography.
The second individual we interviewed was a male senior forestry major. He said that he had not heard of the event that took place in the library this summer. He believes that there should be no policy in place to restrict viewing pornography in public spaces. The only censorship he believes is necessary is for child pornography because it is illegal. He also commented that if he witnessed someone viewing pornography in the library he wouldn't take action and most likely just laugh at such an event.
The third individual we spoke with was a male professor in the philosophy department. He had not heard about the event in the library. He seemed hesitant when answering our questions but overall he did not favor a policy restricting viewing pornography because he believes in freedom of speech. He feels that policies that restrict don't work well and often they are overprotective. He also was hesitant in saying how he would respond to witnessing someone watching pornography in the library. He said he may report to the library staff if what he saw was child pornography or very offensive.
The fourth individual we spoke with was a female senator up for re-election. She stated that policies restricting pornography viewing in public spaces are a "slippery slope." She felt that a policy may be necessary for cases of viewing child pornography.
The fifth individual we spoke with is a female women's studies and social work double major who is a sophomore. She stated that she would favor a policy restricting viewing of pornography in public spaces. If she witnessed someone viewing pornography in the library she said that she would seek assistance from the library staff immediately. She also stated that she did not hear about the incident from over the summer.
The sixth individual we spoke with is a male fifth year senior in math and philosophy. He had not heard of the incident which occurred in the library over the summer. He said that he would not support a policy restricting watching pornography in a public space. The only exception to this in his opinion would be child pornography because it is illegal. He also commented that he would not take action if he witnessed someone viewing pornography unless it was child pornography.
I've found from these interviews that most individuals had not heard about the incident from the summer, nor did they seem particularly concerned with it. Pornography is a touchy subject to bring up and I've found it usually stirs up a lot of feelings. What I find most interesting is the lack of concern or wish to provide UNH's library with a policy. This is a public library with a section for children which in my opinion, is not a place to view pornography. Typically, when issues involving children are brought up it seems that people become overprotective but this was not the case for most of these interviews. I can't say that I'm shocked by any of the opinions I heard at University Day to essentially defend and promote pornography viewing no matter what type of establishment it is being consumed in. The truth is that we live in a porn culture where pornography is so integrated into our everyday lives that many individuals are simply desensitized to it. Also, protecting "freedom" is always the top concern of porn defenders/viewers, even if that person's freedom also requires the constraint of others. Why were UNH students not informed by the police or administration about the man viewing pornography in the library? How much violence/injustice/oppression equate to the value we place freedom at?
The first individual we interviewed was a female graduate student in education. She had not heard about the event that occurred during the library this summer. She felt that viewing porn in a public space (like the library) was not appropriate and that restrictions should be enforced. She compared this to how public schools often block their students from visiting particular sites such as Myspace or Facebook. If she encountered someone viewing pornography in the library she told us that she would not hesitate to notify the library staff or confront the individual viewing pornography.
The second individual we interviewed was a male senior forestry major. He said that he had not heard of the event that took place in the library this summer. He believes that there should be no policy in place to restrict viewing pornography in public spaces. The only censorship he believes is necessary is for child pornography because it is illegal. He also commented that if he witnessed someone viewing pornography in the library he wouldn't take action and most likely just laugh at such an event.
The third individual we spoke with was a male professor in the philosophy department. He had not heard about the event in the library. He seemed hesitant when answering our questions but overall he did not favor a policy restricting viewing pornography because he believes in freedom of speech. He feels that policies that restrict don't work well and often they are overprotective. He also was hesitant in saying how he would respond to witnessing someone watching pornography in the library. He said he may report to the library staff if what he saw was child pornography or very offensive.
The fourth individual we spoke with was a female senator up for re-election. She stated that policies restricting pornography viewing in public spaces are a "slippery slope." She felt that a policy may be necessary for cases of viewing child pornography.
The fifth individual we spoke with is a female women's studies and social work double major who is a sophomore. She stated that she would favor a policy restricting viewing of pornography in public spaces. If she witnessed someone viewing pornography in the library she said that she would seek assistance from the library staff immediately. She also stated that she did not hear about the incident from over the summer.
The sixth individual we spoke with is a male fifth year senior in math and philosophy. He had not heard of the incident which occurred in the library over the summer. He said that he would not support a policy restricting watching pornography in a public space. The only exception to this in his opinion would be child pornography because it is illegal. He also commented that he would not take action if he witnessed someone viewing pornography unless it was child pornography.
I've found from these interviews that most individuals had not heard about the incident from the summer, nor did they seem particularly concerned with it. Pornography is a touchy subject to bring up and I've found it usually stirs up a lot of feelings. What I find most interesting is the lack of concern or wish to provide UNH's library with a policy. This is a public library with a section for children which in my opinion, is not a place to view pornography. Typically, when issues involving children are brought up it seems that people become overprotective but this was not the case for most of these interviews. I can't say that I'm shocked by any of the opinions I heard at University Day to essentially defend and promote pornography viewing no matter what type of establishment it is being consumed in. The truth is that we live in a porn culture where pornography is so integrated into our everyday lives that many individuals are simply desensitized to it. Also, protecting "freedom" is always the top concern of porn defenders/viewers, even if that person's freedom also requires the constraint of others. Why were UNH students not informed by the police or administration about the man viewing pornography in the library? How much violence/injustice/oppression equate to the value we place freedom at?
Friday, September 10, 2010
Technology and Nature
In chapter one of Gender Circuits, Shapiro argues that technology and science have influenced humans ability to manipulate their natural environment. Consistent advancements in the fields of technology and science are being made which eventually could (and may already have) lead to a complete disconnect between human kind and nature. Shapiro states that "the rise of science afforded people the idea that we can-even should- understand the natural world through the use of observation and analytical reasoning. This encouraged and facilitated the development of new technologies to shape and manipulate the natural environment" (Shapiro 48). This logic has also produced the idea that humans should control the natural environment and are entitled to do so. The concept of humans disconnect from nature is where we begin to see what the advertisement of Sun Mad Raisins portrays: technology being integrated in almost every aspect of our lives. An example of this is shown in how food production has changed over time. At one point people in communities had a relationship with the farmers who were producing the food that they purchased and ate. Today, food production has expanded tremendously from technology and consumers walk into grocery stores generally unaware of where their food is coming from and how it has been prepared. There are positive and negative consequences to the advances that technology offers to our lives. In the example of food production, one could argue that technology is beneficial because it allows companies to mass produce food and get their product to more consumers for generally a cheaper price. One could also argue that having technology assist in food production takes away from the quality of the food we consume today. After all, we are trusting many companies and corporations to produce food responsibly. This is quite the challenge since corporations and companies are out to make money. Overall, we should question to what extent technology is beneficial in these areas that so deeply influence our lives and well being.
I'm currently taking a course on environment in sociology and we had to read this article... it's very interesting and I hope it makes others consider where their technology will end up.
http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2008/01/high-tech-trash/carroll-text.html
I'm currently taking a course on environment in sociology and we had to read this article... it's very interesting and I hope it makes others consider where their technology will end up.
http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2008/01/high-tech-trash/carroll-text.html
Saturday, September 4, 2010
A life example...
I just realized that I never provided an example from my own life to strengthen my argument that technology is beneficial to my generation. I am currently employed at the UNH survey center. This means that I get paid to dial numbers and attempt to interview people randomly. If it wasn't for technology my job wouldn't even exist. I know this is a simple example but technology is involved in many occupations today and I can't see this fact changing as we advance. I believe that as time goes on we will see more jobs that involve technology. It is essential for future generations to have these skills in order to have a range of job opportunities. I do not believe that technology makes us dumber but is continuously changing the way in which we get things accomplished.
Edit: It dawned on me that this does not technically explain how my job uses technology. While I interview individuals over the phone I am running through a series of screens on a computer which tell me exactly how to word the questions I ask. I also code the answers each individual gives on these screens. Without the computer it would be much more difficult for me to complete this job because the computer provides so much space to store numbers, interviews, and coded dispositions which allow each interviewer to know what occurred during past calls.
Edit: It dawned on me that this does not technically explain how my job uses technology. While I interview individuals over the phone I am running through a series of screens on a computer which tell me exactly how to word the questions I ask. I also code the answers each individual gives on these screens. Without the computer it would be much more difficult for me to complete this job because the computer provides so much space to store numbers, interviews, and coded dispositions which allow each interviewer to know what occurred during past calls.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Does technology make us the dumbest generation?
It has been claimed that the current generation potentially is the dumbest due to the amount of technology used in essentially everything. Now more than ever people are using computers to find information, social networking, or entertainment. Computers and the internet are thought to make everyday tasks "simpler" to enable a person to complete a great number of tasks at any given time. The problem which arises from this belief concerns the quality of all those tasks being completed. For example, are we truly completing a paper to the best of our ability if we pause every fifteen minutes to check on popular social networking websites? The extent that our attention spans can hold information which we are learning or attempting to communicate is greatly influenced by the example just given. That being said, is all this technology making us dumber? Do we only believe that we are advancing because it feels as if we are completing a great amount of tasks in the shortest amount of time?
The advantage to technology today is the amount of access it allows people to have. This access is seemingly unlimited from journal articles to finding out what a classmate's major is. The vast amount of information is beneficial if this information is located from a credible source, of course. This eliminates issues that may have arisen in education from the past in relation to what a library is able to provide. I believe that access to a great amount of information that technology can provide strengthens one's intelligence. Once again, this is if the information is from a credible source which can certainly get internet users thinking and responding to what is being expressed to them. Technology is also an almost unavoidable aspect of the job market in present times. Many individuals search for employment opportunities online which expands the amount of jobs they are able to consider. These are all positive aspects of technology which have provided more opportunity and information. When considering if technology makes us dumber we must always keep in mind how vital technology skills have become in employment and career opportunities today. Possessing skills in technology is being reinforced through the job market.
Negative aspects of technology include trouble focusing, lack of social experience, and information that is not accurate. As I previously mentioned, the internet is a vast space of information that does not always come from credible sources. There has been a great struggle in education with the issue of plagiarism from the internet. Students have stolen ideas and entire papers from the internet. This is also an issue with work ethic in the current generation. Technology poses a threat to work ethic because most answers and actions come so quickly. If an individual wants to search for a specific topic they can instantly have a great deal of information before them. Of course, this becomes a question of how work ethic is changing throughout generations. If an individual is so used to having access and answers right in front of them, how will they ever learn the value of hard work?
Overall, I do not agree with the idea that technology is making us (as a generation) dumber. As we advance as a society there are gains and losses that come with any change being made. In the case of technology, this current generation may have poor social skills or issues with attention, but they may be advanced in locating information. I believe that these thoughts of the current generation being "dumb" are due to the changes that have been taking place. Older generations may begin to view what was essential to them as an individual, a student, or a worker and become concerned that such skills aren't used to the same degree. In turn, the current generation is developing a different set of skills and some of these include areas that past generations were not as advanced in. It truly is a trade off as times change. This is not to say that the current generation does not have the same skills that older generations did. For example, technology may pose a serious issue when it comes to attention span. In the past, individuals may have had little to no trouble writing a research paper and not feeling distracted. Individuals belonging to the generation today still have the ability to do the same but they have not had as much experience truly focusing their attention. In conclusion, I do not believe that technology makes us dumber but it does provide a new set of skills that are positive and negative to a certain degree.
The advantage to technology today is the amount of access it allows people to have. This access is seemingly unlimited from journal articles to finding out what a classmate's major is. The vast amount of information is beneficial if this information is located from a credible source, of course. This eliminates issues that may have arisen in education from the past in relation to what a library is able to provide. I believe that access to a great amount of information that technology can provide strengthens one's intelligence. Once again, this is if the information is from a credible source which can certainly get internet users thinking and responding to what is being expressed to them. Technology is also an almost unavoidable aspect of the job market in present times. Many individuals search for employment opportunities online which expands the amount of jobs they are able to consider. These are all positive aspects of technology which have provided more opportunity and information. When considering if technology makes us dumber we must always keep in mind how vital technology skills have become in employment and career opportunities today. Possessing skills in technology is being reinforced through the job market.
Negative aspects of technology include trouble focusing, lack of social experience, and information that is not accurate. As I previously mentioned, the internet is a vast space of information that does not always come from credible sources. There has been a great struggle in education with the issue of plagiarism from the internet. Students have stolen ideas and entire papers from the internet. This is also an issue with work ethic in the current generation. Technology poses a threat to work ethic because most answers and actions come so quickly. If an individual wants to search for a specific topic they can instantly have a great deal of information before them. Of course, this becomes a question of how work ethic is changing throughout generations. If an individual is so used to having access and answers right in front of them, how will they ever learn the value of hard work?
Overall, I do not agree with the idea that technology is making us (as a generation) dumber. As we advance as a society there are gains and losses that come with any change being made. In the case of technology, this current generation may have poor social skills or issues with attention, but they may be advanced in locating information. I believe that these thoughts of the current generation being "dumb" are due to the changes that have been taking place. Older generations may begin to view what was essential to them as an individual, a student, or a worker and become concerned that such skills aren't used to the same degree. In turn, the current generation is developing a different set of skills and some of these include areas that past generations were not as advanced in. It truly is a trade off as times change. This is not to say that the current generation does not have the same skills that older generations did. For example, technology may pose a serious issue when it comes to attention span. In the past, individuals may have had little to no trouble writing a research paper and not feeling distracted. Individuals belonging to the generation today still have the ability to do the same but they have not had as much experience truly focusing their attention. In conclusion, I do not believe that technology makes us dumber but it does provide a new set of skills that are positive and negative to a certain degree.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
8/31/10
Welcome to my blog! This is my first entry for WS 798- Cyberbodies. In this blog I will discuss the readings and concepts discussed in class and my understanding of them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)