Lessig

I enjoyed reading the Kodak story. I think that the photo has been a good thing, especially when it comes to expression. Think of all of the amazing, beautiful photographs that we have today all because cameras are easily accessible to us. I do think that there should be a word of caution to this tale though. Expression in terms of film have led to things that aren't always positive. People strive to claim ownership over these images. With the ability to express ourselves comes the awkwardness of Facebook. It becomes difficult to look at images on Facebook where ladies dress in...less than appropriate (yet expressive) clothing and pose as though it's an audition for Playboy.

I believe that Just Think! is really essential to children because if they understand the media, they are more likely to be able to make a critical analysis of what's going on in the world. It will give them the courage to not only understand how things become media, but to create their own.

I never watch the news. Ever. I find it outrageously depressing, as if the writers search for the most down-hearted stories they can find. I do appreciate the Internet in more ways than one, but one of the reasons I like it so much is that anyone can post anything. This means that you get more than a few nutters, but you also get people who actually have something meaningful to say, and it allows for feedback! Unless you want to take the time to call CBS, you pretty much take your anger with you, but online, you can agree, disagree, or just share your own opinion with the author.

I enjoyed the open source piece because it boasts of a sort of "hands on" learning experience. Much like photography, and filming, you have to practice to be good. It takes time and dabbling to really get the hang of software.

I think that the point that needs to be made is that all of these things lead to progress in both positive and negative ways. You can express yourself in a positive, "appropriate" way, or you can send off a message that isn't viewed in such a positive light.