21A READING REFLECTION NO. 2

The book I chose was Cognitive Surplus, by Clay Shirky.

1) Theme of the book?  The book deals heavily with the idea of using free time constructively.  Shirky uses the gin craze as an example to highlight how society can use free time destructively (gin) and as a result degrade little by little, or constructively.  he draws the parallel between gin back then and the modern sitcom today.  I believe that his point is that with modern technology we have plenty of avenues to distract ourselves from doing anything beneficial.  However, there is a plus side.  Presumably, there has never been a society that has so much free time (cognitive surplus).  Shirky's assertion is that people now have the opportunity to organize on massive scales and put their free time to real, productive uses that will help solve today's most pressing issues.

2) How did the book connect with and enhance my understanding of ENT3003?  The book advocates for people to take their creative endeavors to a large scale through online, technological mediums.  ENT3003 is all about getting your self out there, putting your best foot forward, and taking risks to achieve what you feel you are here to do.  This seems to closely align with the message of the book.

3) If I had to design an exercise for this class based on the book, it would require each student to find a concept/mission/organization that resonates with them.  From there, the would be responsible for spreading their concept through any online platfrom they choose (message boards, blogs, social media etc.) to find like-minded people.  From there, the would be responsible for communicating efficiently and respectfully with their peers to organize support for their cause.  I realize that it could pose some issues because while for each student it would simply be an exercise, the people they found online would believe it to be real.

4) What surprised me the most?  I think I expected the book to be a total indictment on modern technology, especially social media.  I expected the author to claim that these technologies were adversely affecting our ability to focus, cooperate, and be happy with one another.  However, he seems to advocate for the responsible, constructive use of these technologies to build a better tomorrow.