Discussion questions

The Discussion Assignment

After completing this week’s reading assignment, answer two of the following questions (one from each module), and then read and comment on at least four of your fellow students’ postings. Note that two of these questions come from last week’s reading and two from this week’s. You may answer a third questions for up to 30 points extra credit!  Please note that you MUST reference material from the textbook in each answer. Failure to do so will result in lost points. If you use additional sources you MUST reference them as well, whether direct quotes or even paraphrasing (putting in your own words). It is best practice to do this by using MLA style parenthetical citations after each quote or paraphrase. For example, if you quote or paraphrase from page 12 of the textbook it would look like this – (Volti 12).  In addition to your textbook, you are encouraged to use the FTCC Library database resources (NC Live, Issues and Controversies, Opposing Viewpoints, etc) as a source of supporting information for your posts. If you use an outside source, be sure to mention what it was and where you found it, citing the source. For information on accessing the FTCC Library databases, see the Resources in the weekly assignments folders.

(From Module 2) Technological advance has often undermined established businesses. Most recently, the growth of internet-based e-commerce has posed a threat to conventional retail firms. Can you think of other business enterprises that the Internet may damage or even destroy? Should anything be done to prevent this from happening? Explain.

(From Module 2) How do you feel about technocracy and scientific management? Think of at least one example of either concept (which, as you know, are closely related) you have witnessed or have knowledge of and tell us about it.

1. (From Module 3) Explain the difference between the “great men and women” view of technological advance and the “social processes” view of technological advance. Which do you think is most accurate and why? Provide examples in your answer.
2. (From Module 3) Discuss the concept of technological closure and explain what you believe this means, in your own words. Then provide at least one example of technological closure that you have witnessed in your lifetime. Elaborate on who might have been affected, both negatively and positively, by your example of technological closure.