Choose one of the following questions, and write a complete essay of approximately 5 to 7 pages. You need not use secondary sources, but if you do, be sure to cite them using proper bibliographic form (including Internet citations).
Your essay should be thoughtful and considered. The issues relate to technology and modern life; in other words, the issues of this course. This essay is due on Monday, February 9. Papers must be handed in on time. Papers handed in late will receive a one grade deducation for each class they are late. You may revise this paper one time for a revised grade.
Don't forget to make use of the links on the class' homepage as well as material and comments that might come up on the discussion list.
1) Some people complain that it is difficult to both read and write on the computer because it's just not "real" unless it's printed on a physical page. Even the most seasoned computer users still print off copies of their work to proofread. Certainly the printed page has certain qualities that are lacking with the computer; but, we might argue, the computer has certain qualities that hte printed page lacks. What about this subject? We're talking philosophy and aesthetics now (even a bit of psychology), but how "real" is what you write and read on the computer? If you can eliminate it by either backspacing, erasing a file, or merely turning off the computer, how does that affect the work itself? Is it any less real when it is on a floppy disk than when it is bound between two covers?
2) Hypertext theory is a concept that has only been around since 1965 when Ted Nelson coined the term. It sure is complex. And it is an idea that has been tackled by scholars from apparently incompatible fields: computers, literature, literary theory, sociology, education, philosophy, even religion. Assume the following: a person (man or woman) who was born in 1890 has come to you for an explanation of hypertext theory. How would you explain it? Remember that hypertext theory does not necessarily have to involve the use of computers. Also try to imagine the background and life of this person who was born before television, telephones, typewriters, automobiles, and widespread electricity. Your goal is not to convince him or her; write an explanatory essay.