Module 13

Megan Flinders

The Wired Society

I am very glad that I was able to take this course.  I felt the reading assignments were very informative and gave me great perspective on the globalization and flattening of the world.  Friedman's book gave me the confidence that I can make my voice heard from wherever I choose to live; meaning, I can work from home or be somewhat anonymous in the grand scheme of things, yet I can be a powerful influence for good due to the global connectivity of our society.

While there are many benefits of our technological world, there are also many scary topics as well.  Technology and connectivity can be used for good and benefit many people.  However, it can also serve as a platform for evil, such as discussed in terrorist organizations.  Therefore, it is important that we always have the right checks and balances in place to ensure our security as a society.  It is therefore important that we as individuals, be informed and express our voices.  I take this very seriously as I am raising children in this world, and want to prepare them for the future.

In all, I am glad I was able to read the book and additional articles that broadened my perspective.  Also, it was interesting to read my colleagues opinions and blogs and make comments.  Thank you for this class and what it stands for.

Module 12

Megan Flinders

Module 12

 

            In the article, “Why the future doesn’t need us”, author Bill Joy discusses many of the aspects of human dependency on computers and machines.  He speaks to the fact that there is a potential for humans to become so consumed with machines making decisions in place of the normal person, that ultimately humans could be replaced by the machines or the “elitists” who control them.  Joy also touches on the topic of GNR, or that of genetics, nanotechnology, and robotics.  His thesis is describing his fears of these three components which relate back to the title of the article.  Does the future really need us, or is our increasing dependency on machines and robots decreasing the need for our existence?

            The first point Joy makes about GNR is the fact that these three forces are so powerful that they can cause chain reactions of consequences.  Furthermore, due to increased connectivity and availability, they are at the fingertips of small groups and individuals (unlike weapons of mass destruction which do not reach the common person).  The possibility of knowledge-enabled mass destruction is real, and is becoming ever more prevalent in our day-in-age.

            Joy recounts his 20-year career in the field of computer technology and admits that while he has been an integral part in creating many programs and software essential to the industry, he never felt as though he was creating an intelligent machine.  However, he fears that the rate of continuous improvement will continue until about the year 2030 when our computers and technology will be nearly a million times more efficient than those with which we currently operate.  If this is to be the case, will there be such a need for our species and existence?  He feels very uncomfortable about the fact that he could be working on the type of machine that causes the extinction of mankind.  He even offers the thought that we should be thinking about how to coexist with such efficient machines and what precautions we should be undertaking.

            Joy continues to take this further when speaking of robotics and intelligent machines that can self-replicate.  He quotes Darwin in saying that in evolution there are humans, nature and machines.  Nature, however, is possibly on the side of the machines.  Will we seek to incorporate robotic characteristics in ourselves to prolong life, improve the quality of life and be restored to our version of Eden?

            Lastly, Joy touches on the point of genetic engineering and the fact that this process is already far along.  Our food supply is greatly impacted by genetic mutation, and this field will continue to be showcased in the future.  If this along with the other components of GNR go unchecked, we will indeed run into issues as a human race.

            In contemplating the views and thoughts from the article, it is hard to discount the validity and possibility of the outcomes hypothesized.  We have seen through the example of the atomic bomb and nuclear weapons, that we are capable of destroying mankind in the blink of an eye.  Therefore, it is vital to have sensible people in control and the necessary checks and balances in play in order to contain the potential destructive behavior.  In this degree, I believe Joy’s thoughts are justified.

            Nevertheless, I believe that the inspiration of natural thought comes from Deity.  There is a given time and place for the creation of invention and the process of innovation.  We are on a designed course as a mortal species that goes beyond the creation of intelligent robotic species.  This may well be a part of our future, but nothing we should fear or try to prevent.  We should, however, seek to understand the risks, be active in our involvement of placing the checks and balances, and hold those responsible who oversee the management of these resources.  The creation and inventions of technology has overwhelmingly been a positive part of human progression.  With most things, there are those who seek to manipulate for personal gain and power, but I feel as though the good and noble will reign supreme.

Module 11

Module 11

Megan Flinders          

WALL-E

 

            The computer related movie I chose to view was the animated movie by Disney’s Pixar, WALL-E.  Although it is a fictional movie made for children and families, there are many points in this film that are very relatable and relevant to our society today.  The film was released in 2008 and the setting of WALL-E takes place in the future, in approximately 2805.  It is interesting to see how far the use of computer generated robots has come since 2008 and to imagine what their capabilities will be in the year 2805.  I wonder if there will be more similarities to what the movie depicted than we suspect.

            The film begins by introducing the main character, WALL-E, which stands for Waste Allocation Load Lifter - Earth-Class.  He is a computer generated trash compactor that was sent to earth in 2105 to help other trash compacter robots clean the planet after it had been evacuated by all humans due to decades of mass consumerism that had left the planet uninhabitable thanks to the megacorporation Buy n’ Large (BnL).  The humans left to live in fully automated starliners (made by BnL of course) while the robots make the earth habitable once more.  Eventually BnL abandons its plan and shuts down all of the WALL-E robots, except for one.  He maintains his lifestyle and repairs himself with old parts he finds and collects things he finds while compacting trash.

            One day while going about his business, WALL-E discovers a small plant that has begun to grow.  Not long after that, a spaceship lands and deploys an advanced robot sent from the BnL starliner to search for vegetation on earth.  This robots name is EVE (Extraterrestrial Vegetation Evaluator), and WALL-E quickly falls in love with her.  She, after many hostile interactions, eventually befriends him.  WALL-E brings EVE to his collection and she sees the plant which she immediately stores inside herself and goes into stand-by mode waiting to be retrieved by a ship.  WALL-E thinks she has malfunctioned and tries to fix her to no avail.  He stows away on the spaceship that comes to collect EVE and travels to the Axiom ship where the humans reside.

            On the ship we find that the inhabitants have become morbidly obese and incessantly lazy due to the comfortable lifestyle on the ship that computers and robots provide for them.  They ride around in automated chairs all day that have a big virtual screen right in front of their faces that obeys their every command.  They never need to have face-to-face interactions with each other because they can talk through their computers whenever they like.  They also order food on their computers which they eat in their space chairs while on the go, never really going anywhere in particular.

            The plant that EVE has found would be proof to the humans that life on earth could exist once more, but through a series of unfortunate events between EVE and WALL-E, there are confusions and mishaps that almost ruin the chance for them to find the plant that EVE stored within herself.  Once the plant is finally discovered, the captain of the spaceship concludes that mankind must return to restore their ruined planet.  However, the ship’s robotic autopilot, Auto, has taken control of the ship and does not want the humans to return to earth.  After many attempts, the captain overtakes and disables Auto and the Axiom begins its return home to earth.

            It is a little frightening to see the depiction of the dependency that the humans have on their computers, and it is pretty realistic to how people are with technology today.  I can totally imagine a world where the human race depended on technology and computers for everything in life.  While the human-like characteristics of the robots probably seemed far-fetched in the year 2008, today we see robotic interactions that imitate human like qualities to an almost scary degree.  Even in talking to Siri we find that she is programmed with sarcasm that makes her personable.  I definitely think the social and cultural issues that are raised by the film showcase our dependence on our technology and the “I need it now and I don’t want to have to work for it” attitude that we can see becoming increasingly more commonplace.  The movie was meant to portray a time far in the future, but I don’t think we have to look all the way into 2805 to see similarities between our day and this film.

Module 10

Megan Flinders

Module 10

A Logic Named Joe

 

            In the short story, “A Logic Named Joe” written in 1946, several technical descriptions of our time became actuality due to the internet and world-wide web.  It is interesting to think that far out ideas of 1946, such as the ability to “type in logic in the tank” and it will pop up what you are searching for, are simply reality and taken for granted in our time.  It is hard to imagine what life would be like without the basics of a computer, internet, cell phone, television, and the like. Nevertheless, it is interesting to take a look at a few of these ideas to see which really came to pass, and those which never materialized.

            As noted, “the tank” as described in the story illustrates the seemingly never ending supply of information contained in the digital world.  The thought of searching for the weather forecast, a mistress in the White House connected with a Presidential regime, and the premise that a machine could to math or act as a consultant for chemistry, physics, or astronomy, are truly factual in our day in age.  We can search for any topic and find mass amounts of information.  As described in the short story, our machines are literally connected and able to share this amount of information.  We have seen this in Friedman’s book, “The World is Flat” as he has described companies such as Napster which allowed this data file sharing.  Friedman also describes the flattening of the world through outsourcing, and dives deep into the demographics and economics of India, of whom have become the consultants and back office of many companies looking for cost and production efficiencies.

            As the story continues, it describes “Joe” as coming to life, or having a mind of its own.  I can see the thought process of someone in 1946 who was unsure if such a technology would ever exist.  Many times the unknown creates doubt and uncertainty.  Sure, there is excitement over a new way of doing something, but there are always thoughts and naysayers who are comfortable with the here and now.  Innovators, however, have no such fear.  We can see, many years later, that our machines have not come to life.  They do not search for information or broadcast details without being programmed to do so.  And the resultant information of our queries is not some trick played by the computer.  The amusing thought in the short story of giving advice for a wife killer, which would be different for a blonde or brunette, is simply that; amusing, but not true.

            Now, while the “logic” spitting back ideas from the “tank” is not how we search on the web, it does somewhat resemble communications with Siri.  If Siri is unable to decipher your question, which may not always be factual or understood, she will respond with somewhat of a personality.  Her tones and responses are not vicious, as Joe in the short story was described as well, but they do not always follow logic.  Siri can be humorous, or direct, depending on how you address her.  So in theory, she somewhat resembles Joe and the logic.

            Another somewhat prophetic part of the story is when Laurine is in the hotel searching for Ducky, the narrator of the story.  This is as if she is searching for a facebook friend, or someone’s Twitter handle or Instagram page.  He doesn’t go by his real name, so the logic cannot find him. Laurine tries a few different names, but he mentions he is home, but “in maintenance” because he doesn’t want to be pestered.  This is like being away or unavailable on IM or email.  Quite realistic in our day.

            The last part of the story gets into something near and dear to people’s heart; computer security and sensors.  Joe was described as giving out personal information including name, address, age, sex, charged amounts on credit cards, spouse, and more.  Even more so, Joe didn’t have a sensor, so the kids in the story were accessing content that was supposed to be restricted. We live in a world where our personal information can be distributed as described. However, we also have many controls to stop this dissemination of information for the protection of individuals.  However, strictly speaking, this along with the other instances described, are true events that take place in our day and age.  Interesting how one in 1946, without a clue of how reality would truly take place, could predict so closely how the information world would unfold.

Module 9

Megan Flinders
Module 9

The building of a Dell laptop is quite impressive as was illustrated by Friedman in chapter 16 when he discussed the machine he used to write this book.  He wanted to know where the components came from, and contacted Dell to trace the location.  What is depicted next is an impressive supply chain which can readily pinpoint where each part came from, and a vision of how Dell operates. 
Dell takes orders for its computers via internet or phone, and on an average day tallies near 140,000 – 150,000 computers sold.  The suppliers that work with Dell are contacted as soon as the orders are placed, to expedite the shipping of all of the products. Because each order is customized to the customer, Dell does not pre-build most of its computers.  The exact product type, module, hardware are sent to the factory, scanned in by barcode and put in the bins for assembly.  Dell, like Walmart, has multiple suppliers which it can contact in the case of product shortages or defects.  This speeds up the time to market and ultimately, improves customer satisfaction.  In the end, the building of a Dell laptop is about collaboration, continuous process improvement, and efficiency.
    When speaking of al-Qaeda and supply chains, one can see that the flattened world has aided terrorist groups who use these same instruments for global collaboration.  Al-Qaeda’s usage of supply chains is dangerous because the supply chains it uses are for destruction and terror, not profit and a better standard of living.  Friedman points out the fact that the leaders and innovators of al-Qaeda understand supply chains and the flat world almost as well as the innovators from Wal-Mart, Dell, and Infosys.  It has allowed a revival of Muslim identity and an ability to train, recruit, and connect with members instantaneously in all parts of the world.
    Friedman defines the types of supply chains used by al-Qaeda as mutant supply chains or suicide supply chains.  In the end, these supply chains have worked in the flattened world to let the small act big.  This is seen in acts of physical and cyber terror which have been enabled by the flattened world.
    The curse of oil as stated by Friedman, is where the monarch and dictators who run countries, get rich by drilling oil and use wealth to stay in office forever.  They use this oil money to monopolize the power without empowering the people of the nations they rule.  This ultimately retards growth and causes a major rift between rulers and those being ruled.  When rulers hoard money and resources, there is no need or desire to understand or have empathy for those they rule.  They simply govern in a self-gratifying and benefiting way.  Many nations have been unable to progress in a democratic context due to the curse of oil and continue having weak or nonexistent institutions.
    Another factor in the curse of oil is the lack of innovation or creativity that takes places when all you have to do is dig for oil.  Building things creates trade.  Friedman stated that fact that while Muslim nations make up near 20 percent of the world’s population, they only account for 4 percent of world trade.  Trading opens the doors for innovation and ideas.  It fosters global connectivity and exposure.

Module 8

Megan Flinders

Module 8

Personal Computer Education Essay

 

            My relevant story about how computers have been used in my education starts many years ago.  My husband, prior to starting his MBA, purchased a new laptop.  We opted to stay with Windows XP instead of the new Windows 7 due to some unfavorable reviews on the new software.  We had Microsoft 2003 as 2007 hadn’t quite been released.  This Toshiba laptop was perfect.  While my husband used it for class, we also used it as our home computer storing large amounts of music, video, and photos on the hard drive.  Several years later, which happened to be when I decided to go back to school, we decided it would be a good idea to get a desktop computer to go along with the laptop.  The laptop’s memory was about full, Windows XP had since been several times updated to the new Windows 8, the Microsoft Office package we were using was now severely outdated with formats somewhat incompatible for my studies, and our iPad just wouldn’t meet all of my needs.  With all of the factors in place, off we went to buy the home computer. 

As my first week of courses began, I was still using our laptop to check out my courses on the online Canvas system.  Most of my courses were held at the University, however, they also included an online component.  It would be necessary that I had an internet connection at home to be able to perform research for my classes, write papers, and submit everyday assignments.  Study guides and exam prep were also included on the Canvas system which made it a go to program on a daily basis.  And most importantly, most of my assignments were to be submitted online.  Here alone shows how instrumental computers were to be in my education.  To not be able to access Canvas through a working computer and internet connection would be devastating.  Thus the stage was set for the perfect digital failure.

It all began when our new, supposedly up to date computer (which had Microsoft 2013, Windows 8.1, and several bells and whistles) began to throw up all sorts of pop-ups and indications a virus was present.  I was in the middle of trying to save a paper I had just written, which happened to be due that night, when the computer stated my C: drive was corrupted.  I couldn’t save, exit, and continue with Microsoft Word.  I reset my computer and it wouldn’t start back up.  All the while, in my panicked state, I tried to fire up the dusty laptop.  Sorry, after waiting for 10 precious minutes for the dinosaur to turn on, it prompted me that the memory was full.  Therefore, I couldn’t use the laptop.  Since I was too far away from the University, library, or any other source I could think of, I was relegated to try and remember what I had written in my essay and finger peck away on the iPad.  I typed prodigiously until I had somewhat of an assignment completed and turned it in to my teacher.  I think I spent as much time writing an explanation to what had happened, as I did on the paper.  What a horrible experience with the use of technology which has left a lasting impression on me.  I have definitely learned from that experience what I could have done differently and hopefully won’t have to experience something like that again.

Suffice it to say that computers have played, and continue to impact, a huge part of my education.  All of my classes this semester are through the Canvas system.  Without the ability to use a computer from the comfort of my home, or even the convenience of the library, I would be forced to hand write, and physically turn in my assignments.  Computers have increased the efficiency and over experience in getting an education and will continue to do so throughout my college years.

Module 7

Megan Flinders

Module 7

 

Some countries are better at doing certain things, or in economic terms, have a comparative advantage in large part due to their culture.  Friedman references The Wealth and Poverty of Nations in which author David Landes mentions that the values of the country or region (hard work, thrift, honesty, patience and tenacity) are a bigger factor than the climate, natural resources and geography.  While the latter factors also play a part in competitive advantage, countries gain the comparative advantage from these intangible factors.

Friedman goes on to explain how Ireland has these values instilled in the country DNA, and has risen from the scoffing of European countries, to become the second most wealthy nation in the European Union.  The hard work and resiliency of the nation has allowed it to embrace globalization and become an attractive player in the global economy.  Friedman uses the term “glocalize” to describe nations who absorb foreign ideas and best practices and meld them with the country’s own norms and traditions to create an advantage in the flat world.  This is in contrast to many Muslim countries who are stuck on tradition and unwilling to glocalize with other nations.  Not only are these countries closed off to the idea of melding ideas, some actually shun the practice and feel a need to “purge” or eliminate certain nations to do.  In a way, this leads to a more closed mindset which can decrease the potential comparative advantage.  Ultimately when tolerance is the foundation, nations can share best practices and good ideas for the greater good of all.

One additional comparison Friedman uses to illustrate why some countries produce comparative advantage is between Mexico and China.  Simply stated, it is the intangibles China possess which allows it to thrive while Mexico is lost shuffling for answers.  China has found the ability to focus its energies, perform necessary reform, and promote based on a meritocracy.

Self-directed consumers are those that drive companies to offer products and services customized to their needs.  They feel that if Company X is not offering such a service they desire, they will find another company that does.  An example referenced is in the financial industry where consumers want one stop shopping for these services.  It can also be seen in many companies and innovative products which continue to develop after taking surveys, launching pilot products and programs, and making adjustments based on consumer feedback.

I believe I am a self-directed consumer in a way because I have a good idea of the service and products I want.  However, I also enjoy companies, such as Apple, who bring innovative products to me.  I think there is a delicate balance between being reactive and waiting for customers to tell you what they what, and being innovate and proactive and telling consumers what they want while giving the reasons they will want it.  Ultimately people don’t know they need or want or can’t live without (e.g. smartphones now versus phones 15 years ago) until somebody creates the products and shows them.

When speaking of globalization, it is not meant to reference Americanization.  Friedman discusses how this might have been the general feel or consensus early on the flattening process simply because America was the first mover in the market.  Most American factories, products, brands and so forth paved the way in globalization.  However, we have discussed through the text this concept of individual empowerment through electronic means and platforms and the flattening world.  Now people everyone can upload content, ideas, and innovation from across the globe.  This means more and different perspectives, and cultural impact instead of simply an Americanization of the globe.  Americanization is still a powerful force, but globalization offers a platform for individuals from all nations to share cultural norms and practices as never before.