social networking

• Some have argued that social networking web sites like Facebook (and many others), along with the increasing presence of mobile technology have had negative effects on our communication and thinking practices. Others disagree. Drawing upon our reading and discussion, and perhaps upon your own observations and experiences, write an essay responding to the question of whether social networking technologies are harmful or helpful overall. You may, if you wish, focus on a particular site or service (like Facebook, Instagram, Linked In, or another) or argue more generally.

• Select one on-line social networking service that you use frequently. Or choose to similar services that you might compare and contrast. Write an essay in which you assess whether the service(s) you discuss play a harmful or beneficial role in your life. Use descriptions of your own use of the service(s), along with readings and possibly other sources, to support your position.

• Video games (particularly violent ones) are often charged with causing violent behavior or at least desensitization in response to violence. They are associated by some with other negative behaviors as well (such as laziness or antisocial attitudes). Write an essay in which you assess the effects of video games on players/users. Overall, do you think video games have positive or negative effects on those who play them? In your argument, draw upon class readings, perhaps some outside reading (found on our supplements page on Canvas or in your own research), and possibly your own (or peers’) experiences and observations.

• Choose a specific video game that you play regularly or know well. Or choose two similar games that you might compare and contrast. Write an essay in which you assess whether the game(s) you discuss should be seen as potentially harmful and dangerous or as beneficial and productive. Use details from the game(s) and your experience playing, along with readings and possibly other sources, to support your position.