INSTRUCTIONS

The final exam consists of two questions total: one short and one long-answer questions. You must answer both questions separately.

The short answer should be no less than 500 words, while the long response should be no less than 1000 words (1500 words minimum for the assignment, but you may go over without penalty). Standard formatting applies; double-spaced, in a regular font. You may use MLA or APA, but please, no cover sheet required. Also, you must include a bibliography or works cited at the end of your final exam. Always be sure to cite your sources.

Please include the question at the top of each response.

Be sure to include a word count at the end of each response.

Please answer clearly and completely.

GUIDELINES

In your responses, be sure to refer to the readings for guidance in providing a framework for your thinking. You're welcome to draw upon research of your own, but you must do so in addition to demonstrating your familiarity with what the required readings have said, and with accuracy about the views expressed there. Your answer to each question must refer back to the source, anchored by textual analysis of the relevant article in which these ideas and concepts originate.

As always, define your terms and give examples that illustrate what you think to be true. And, take seriously those who would object to your views.

For this exam, please be sure to have read the papers found in Weeks 10 through 15, and the ethical theorists. Then, answer the following questions:

Short-answer questions (pick one; 500 words):

1. Explain Winner's concept of "mythinformation" and his criticism of this point of view.

2. Consider Dreyfus' analysis of the internet. Explain how search engines require commitments to specific political arrangements.

3. Consider Winograd's analysis of software design. Explain how all software design, and hence software use, is inherently value-laden.

4. According to Volokh and Hasen, how as the internet (infobahn) contributed to "cheap speech" and "what has it done to American Democracy"? Explain and give examples.

Long-answer question (1000 words):

How do computers make our lives both easier and worse? Be sure that you define what you mean by both "easier" and "worse". Give examples from both public (e.g., work, school, etc.) and private (e.g., personal, familial relations, etc.) spheres of life, including from your own experience. Then, use some ethical theory or theory of technology to assess how it is that you reach your conclusion.

ON FORMATTING

I will accept both APA or MLA styles, however do not include a cover sheet. When doing research, you may use sources from any periodical from the internet or other written sources, but DO NOT use Wikipedia as a source. The sources may be from peer-reviewed journals or popular blogs. For example, check the Science and Technology sections from NPR, or The New York Times, etc. Other popular Tech based sites and blogs, such as Ars-Technica or Tech Crunch, are perfectly acceptable. If you have any questions about a specific source, please ask before using it. Please be sure to include a bibliography or works cited for all relevant information.