The introduction of "Geek Heresy" raises an interesting point: "talent is universal; opportunity is not" (ix). I was skeptical of this at first, but kept reading to give it a chance. As the introduction goes on, we delve into Megan Smith's arguments that technology creates a vast availability of everything there is to know about everything, all in one convenient place (the internet), and that these technologies not only bring us together, but also bring us all widespread opportunity: an outlet for all of our "talents".
My issue with this is, does everyone really have a talent worthy of limitless opportunity? Do we all deserve this opportunity? And most importantly, what does "talent" become when opportunity becomes vast?
It's this kind of thinking that has driven consumers of digital media to being perceived as selfish, narcissistic, and arrogant. When we're given these opportunities that technologies bring, it's not long before we see ourselves as worthy of attention, recognition and reward. Is this the positive social change Smith envisions in her discussion of talent and opportunity?
Certain people are given opportunity to influence and change technology. Certain people are given opportunity to make themselves known with technology. Certain people are given opportunity to influence social change with technology. It's important to note the difference between seeing technology as something we deserve to host our talents, and seeing technology as something we can use in conjunction with our talents to help change the world for the better.
I think my main concern with this is when does opportunity change from just a normal thing? To me, I think of opportunity as something special, but if the internet allows for an abundance of opportunity, then isn't it not opportunity anymore? I think for your question about does everyone really have a talent worthy of limitless opportunity, I think yes, everyone does, but I am not sure if every talent deserves to be recognized in that way. I think the idea of the internet and talent and abundant opportunities brings people to think that the internet will solve all of their problems or make them famous when in reality, it doesn't.
ReplyDeleteI like your point that the Internet provides too much opportunity. There is an overload of information that people defiantly become overwhelmed. And you're right that our talents combined with technology will not always solve our problems.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Natasha on your point, and that too much opportunity may lead to unexpected outcomes and consequences. Susanna talks about in her blog post how some people result in becoming lazy from the numerous amounts of opportunity that the internet offers. I agree that many people believe that the internet will solve problems and create change, but in reality it does not meet those exact expectations.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your questioning as to whether or not everybody has a talent unique enough to create such opportunity. If we really were all on an even playing field as it relates to technology would we all really have the same opportunities? As I begin applying to jobs I think of all the other people graduating from college and applying for the same jobs, with the same qualifications and educational experience that I have, and in the end it is your exceptional experience and talent in the field that will land you the job amongst all the other qualified candidates. It becomes more about how to get access to those to develop their talents to create opportunity.
ReplyDelete