OTM Automatic Attitudinal Response

I wanted to do a little more research and see if I could identify my own barriers to critical thought. First of all critical thinking means I am able to look at an issue and form and objective opinion of that issue. But to not by swayed by my own personal interests, or be influenced by others.

If I'm understanding correctly I feel that with primary certitude I typically forma an immediate response to the issues I am reading. I think that this is easy to do, especially depending on the issue at hand, and who is involved. I don't think I am always convinced that what I am reading is the truth. I believe that I try to do a little research and understand the facts before forming an opinion.

As far as having hidden assumptions, I have to admit that sometimes I fall into this trap. It is easy to make a judgement based off what I am reading or am told regarding an issue. When I read or hear about issues that are going on in the news, I try not to jump to conclusions. I like to read others opinions and then try to go to the source to get the correct information regarding the situation. The reason for this is, I think I have made assumptions too quickly in the past, and have regretted my actions all because I wasn't thinking critically.

With ethnocentric influences, this one throws me for a loop, and then I begin questioning my primary certitude and hidden assumptions. I feel that with both of them, I am fairly level-headed and can objectively form an opinion based on the facts. That is until I come to ethnocentrism. I have been raised in the LDS faith and have lived my entire life in Utah around people who, for the most part share my beliefs.

If a situation does not affect me directly, usually I do not let religion, race, or someones culture influence my opinions regarding an issue. Unfortunately, when an issue starts affecting my own life or the lives of my children, I find myself going back to the principles, values and beliefs that I have been taught and accepted throughout my life. A lot of people may call this a double standard, but it is how I am. I am more ethnocentric than I care to admit when it is something personal to me and my family. Honestly, I have to say it is because of the principles that I have been taught throughout my life.

In reading over my On The Media posts, I feel that I mostly reported the facts. I think my opinions were fairly neutral. I don't feel that religion, race, or politics, swayed my opinion. Okay, maybe with the politics. My opinion usually coincided with what was being broadcast, or with the research I found. I could be wrong in thinking that my opinion is neutral. To help support why I feel this way, I will briefly re-evaluate my OTM blog posts.

OTM: Who We Are and What We Could Be

This post is regarding the tragic deaths of two Virginia journalists that were gunned down on live television by a disgruntled co-worker. I feel sad on both parts. Sad for the journalists, their families, and friends. Yet, I am also sad for the gunman. It saddens me that he felt this was his only way of being heard.  I mostly responded with a fear that this incident could become a model for someone else.

OTM: Dreams Washed Away

Dreams Washed Away is a response to an image that was shared worldwide of 3 year old Aylan Kurdi. Aylan, along with his brother and mother drowned while leaving Syria in an attempt to find a safer home. My response to this sadness, and anger. I just can't understand how a single image can spark such an world-wide outcry, when for months numerous others have died trying to do the same thing. I am very sympathetic to these individuals who are suffering. I wish that there was something more that could be done for them.

OTM: Who Decides? Refugees or Migrants

I may show a little disgust towards the political views on this post. I feel sympathetic towards both the refugees and the migrants. I don't think they should be treated separately. I feel that they are both individuals who are seeking for a better life. As far as the political officials, I don't understand why they are trying to ignore this situation. Maybe they just don't know what to do. I guess I try to see it from both sides, and hope that in the end everyone will be happy.

OTM: Austria's Stance On The Refugee Crisis

This post is in regards to the refugees that were at the train station in Vienna who were waiting to travel to Germany. As I'm reading and writing these, I am starting to see a trend. Apparently I am quite concerned with what is happening in the Middle East, as this is my third OTM post regarding it. As with the other two posts, I am sympathetic for the individuals going through this, and grateful for those who are stepping up to help.

OTM: Social Illness

Social illness is apparently a real thing. There are individuals who claim to be sick, or post on social media sites about family members that are supposedly sick in an attempt to gain sympathy or money. I feel bad for those who feel like they have to do something like this. I could not believe this, nor do I understand why someone could do something like this.

OTM: Darkode by Radiolab

My response to this podcast is surprise. I am stunned to know how easy it is for people to access information. It scares me to know this information, yet unsure of how to process it. We live in a world of technology, and it is only going to keep advancing. I can see a lot of fear in my opinion on this post.

OTM: Does the Media Lie?! Find Out.

My response to this post shows mostly uncertainty. I think I don't trust anyone in politics on this one. With that said, I also feel that if I were to research more and be more involved with the debates I would be able to better understand them.

I enjoyed doing the On The Media posts and learned a lot from doing them. I have learned that you really do need to do your own research. This is the only way that you can truly form your own opinion on matters. There is always two sides to everything. Not that you necessarily have to pick a side, but at least to be well informed is the important part. With the technology that we have at our fingertips we are able to be involved in so many different aspects. The only way that change is going to come about regarding important issues, is to actually know what is happening in the world. I also realized that by going back through my posts, it's okay to change your mind. This is another important reason for doing your own research and finding out for yourself what is going on. It is easy to form opinions based on what others say. I also feel that our discussions in class were helpful in listening to what others had to say. This type of exercise can help with critical thinking, and helps us to see things from someone else's point of view.

On The Media

Does The Media Lie?! Find Out.

Physical: This weeks On The Media, Does The Media Lie?! takes place during a debate on Tuesday, October 13, 2015. Bernie Sanders is an American Politician, and he believes that the media twists the truth.

Psychological: On The Media point out that Bernie Sanders would only be happy with a story on social media, if it were his people who wrote it. For years Sanders has bad-mouthed the media, saying they should not be trusted, and that nothing they say is in line with what really matters to the American people. In Tuesday's debate Bernie said, "Lets talk about the real issues facing America." On the other side, the media sees Bernie Sanders as an old, disgruntled, rude, and cranky man.

Social: Bernard "Bernie" Sanders is running as a candidate for the 2016 Presidential campaign. He is currently the junior United States Senator in Vermont. Sander has been involved in politics since 1971. He has been a huge advocate for the voice of the people. Wikipedia stated that while serving for the first time in the House, he criticized both political parties, alienated allies and colleagues because of his views. In an interview with Paul Heintz, he told Brooke Galdstone that Sanders main issue is with the media and how they can't get anything right in the way they report. Paul feels that Sanders only wants to discuss certain issues, whereas the media is interested in several issues. When social media refuses to publish what Sanders wants, this is when he lashes out against the media. Paul stated that Sanders will intentionally ignore questions, or refuse to answer them. He also indicated that sometimes Sanders will leave the room. Brooke said that throughout the last forty years this is typical for Bernie Sanders.

Cultural: In wondering how this can relate to us, I feel that on the surface Bernie Sanders is trying to make the public think he is on their side. When in fact he is bringing up issues that he wants to discuss and avoiding others. This could be a huge issue if he were to become President. As President of the United States, he would have to face every issue that comes his way. He won't be able to pick and choose which is important and which is not.  What it basically comes down to is the fact that he is uncomfortable talking about issues that he is not well-informed about, or not sure of his own stance on the issue. Another problem that the public needs to be aware of is his attitude and how he treats all people (media included).

Temporal: Over the past forty years Bernie Sanders has embraced certain social issues and made it a point to stand out to the media regarding them. Yet, there are several issues that he refuses to discuss as well. Rather than voice an opinion on all issues, he tries to turn the tables and try to throw the media under the bus for not focusing on the issues he feel are  important. Paul said that Sanders tends to be a loner, and has difficulty getting along with others. He also indicated that over the years Sanders has been learning how to get along better with others. 

Opinion:

I think given his track record of trying to ignore issues, and only wanting to discuss the ones he wants could be a problem. I feel that someone running for President of the United States needs to understand and know all of the issues facing Americans today. Not only should they know all of the issues, but they should know where they stand on those issues. By doing this, it shows that they have done their homework, and are not afraid to stand up to what they believe in. This would indicate that they are not easily manipulated by others. Not to say that they cannot have a change in opinion, based on evidence. But at least they would be more informed on the issues at hand. Another thing that really concerns me is Bernie's temper. He is quite outspoken when he chooses to be, and his opinions seem to be fueled by anger at times. Honestly I don't know who would be a good fit for the next President of the United States. I feel that everyone running has some sort of issue.

Climate 2.0

"IT'S GLOBAL WARMING, STUPID!"

As quoted by Bloomberg Business Week. So the question is, how is social media impacting the climate? At first it is easy to think that the two are in no way related. But they are in two ways, first by creating barriers, and second by offering solutions.

First things first! What is happening with the climate, and why is it changing? Through science they have proven that everyday activities of humans is clearly causing environmental changes. The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) stated that the following two reasons are the cause:  the burning of fossil fuels, and deforestation. Burning fossil fuels starts with the extraction of coal and petroleum from the earth. When extracted it releases carbon dioxide, causing extra heat which stays in the atmosphere causing the "greenhouse effect". Deforestation is the removing of trees. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air, but because of the decline in trees the carbon dioxide stays in the atmosphere.

EDF also stated that not only is the climate changing, but so are the business and political climates. This is where we can all step up and do something. We all have the opportunity to recycle. We need to be proactive and understand that we can do our part. It is simple to recycle. Washington County has a recycling program called WCSW Recycling Program. There are drop off locations all over Washington County. They accept paper, glass, metal, cardboard, and plastic. The cost of this service is included in trash removal fees that are collected by the cities. 100% of the proceeds get placed back into the community for various enhancement projects. Another suggestion is to buy local produce. By buying local produce it is fresher, safer, and typically has fewer chemicals and pesticides. But a major reason to buy local is the reduction of fuel needed for transportation. St. George city has a Farmers Market in Downtown Ancestor Square. This is an excellent place to support local businesses, while helping to protect the environment.

This is where social media comes into play. Social media is a platform where the public can make their voices be heard. It is a place where we can take a stand. We need to let our leaders (the leaders we elected) know our concerns. Social media gives us a voice concerning many political issues, especially climate change. The use of social media can create somewhat of a barrier when it comes to issues such as climate change. We are constantly seeing the effects global warming is having on us and our communities. Yet, there are few suggestions or solutions being offered. In Our World, an article by Brendan Barrett, Debate: How can Social Media Save the Planet?, indicates that social media and climate change is being influenced by how we receive information and share news.

So, can social media play a role in the future regarding climate change? I think, YES! I think that social media can influence the public to get involved. Awareness is definitely key to getting people involved. By helping everyone understand how they are impacting the climate and offering solutions to slow down the problem, we can hopefully make a difference.

Social Media Religion

Religion 3.0

In the definition for religion it states that it is an organized collection of beliefs, cultural systems, and world views that relate humanity to an order of existence. Many religions have narratives, symbols, and sacred histories that aim to explain the meaning of life, the origin of life, or the Universe.

Social media has become a way for religious organizations to broadcast their teachings to the world instantaneously. You used to have to go out and search religious literature, but now through social media one can connect with people in those religious circles and engage in conversations. Before social media this was nearly impossible. There are several parts to social media. People are able to talk freely about whatever they like. Religion is becoming a huge part of social media. There are many apps, and sites available for all different types of religion.

An article in World Religion News, indicated that there is a growing number of American children who are being raised without religion. Because of social media it is making it possible for people of all faiths, and those who have no religion to experience religion online. Religious beliefs online help all to realize the similarities of all faiths. This allows people to see religion in a new way. They can see that many religions share common beliefs. Social media has become a religious melting pot for religious cultures to openly share their beliefs, and practices. Social media can help those who are struggling to find some kind of hope. They can see other religions and mix them up to form their own opinions. This can help them to acknowledge the existence of God, giving them something to believe in.

"Social media is changing the way people talk about faith and share religious experiences and perspectives," as stated by World Religion News. Also in this article, the Founder of Instant Christ, Donald Cyprian shares the 5 Ways Social Media Connects Religion to Younger Generations.

1. Prayer Apps

Prayer apps, such as PrayWithMe.com and Instapray.com. These are available so others can see, and read your prayers. This allows them to share in others prayers needs if they desire.

2. Capture Miracles in Real Time

Social media allows for instantaneous connection to the entire world. Everyday people are capturing miracles by recording, or photographing them. Then they are able to share these miracles. These miracles make religion, and spiritual experiences come to life. It allows others to become part of it, giving them a sense of connection.

3. The Big Three

Meaning: The big three in social media, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. These social media platforms make it easy to share spiritual experiences, let people know that you need help, or things you pray for. People are also able to create online relationships with others who share the same beliefs. Through social media we are able to reach out to large numbers of people in short amount of time.

4. The YouTube Effect

Anyone can go onto YouTube, search for and watch any denomination they wish to. Many religious organizations use YouTube as a place to showcase their religious-based talents. Choirs, young performers, pastors, ministers, etc. are able to reach many audiences this way. Anyone across the world is able to be seen this way.

5. Digital Communication

With the availability of all kinds of technology today such as, smart phones, ipods, ipads, Kindle books it brings religion closer and makes it easier to find.

Social media is making it possible for the younger generations to have some sort of religion in their lives, even though they may not realize it. An article in the message said, "The spread of social-media-savvy, religion related content has reached, well, biblical proportions." The message also indicated the social media is helping to bridge the religious divide to more modern audiences. Thanks to social media, and technology all religions are being represented online.

Religion can be a touchy subject, and create heated conversations between people, as do many other subjects. Because of social media I feel that it is allowing us to see people for who they are and how their beliefs have shaped their lives. Social media gives us a window to others religious practices, giving us insight and understanding. I think that social media could be an answer in some sort of way, to help others be more patient, and more respectful to those of other faiths. After all I think everyone could use the blessings and prayers for all denominations.

In ending I would like to reword the definition of religion as it relates to social media (SM). SM Religion is a place to organize collections of beliefs, examine different cultural systems, and explore world views that narrates humans survival to exist. SM Religion has many narratives, millions of symbols, and sacred histories of individuals that aim to show the meaning of life to them, where they came from, and their thoughts about the Universe.

On The Media: Darkode by Radiolab

Darkode

Physical: Radiolab did a segment on Darkode. Darkode is an online criminals dream for hackers. This recording included an interview with the man that started it, now reformed hacker, Daniel Placik.

Psychological: Darkode creates fear, and panic for the public. It can make individuals afraid of using social media. On the other hand, Darkode is an amusement park for those on the inside.

Social: As a young boy, Daniel would escape to the basement to play games. Playing the games was not enough, he wanted to know how they worked. He began looking into the make-up of the games, and started changing graphics, maps, and more. As a teen, Daniel didn't have many friends. He considered himself to be socially awkward. In trying to learn more about the structuring of games he started chatting online in a chat-room called Game Search. Several times while in these chat-rooms, he observed another individual that would get into fights, and purposely knock them offline as a way of retaliating. Dan began talking to this man, asking him questions. Eventually this led him to Bot-Talk which is a website where hackers could swap stories, brag about the things they were doing to people online, and receive tips on how to become better hackers. Overtime Daniel designed Darkode, but dropped out once hackers started committing financial crimes through it.

Cultural: Darkode access is by invite only. Hackers that were invited to this website, are the best of the best. These criminals could rent access to computers, purchase ransom ware, purchase credit card numbers, software to spy. This website is known as a criminal cyber crime site. It is one of the largest sites out there. Individuals that had been invited to this website were considered "rippers" because of their ability to rip people off. Rippers have to stay organized, and clean in order to maintain their reputations. The "rippers" have certain standards, and rules that they have to follow in order to stay in the game and not get caught. As targeted citizens we must do things to protect ourselves from these types of invasions.

Temporal: On July 15, 2015 the FBI took down Darkode after an 18 month investigation into it. Unfortunately, two weeks after being shut down, it was back up and running. Hacking is big business, and is ran as an organization. There are even Hacker Magazines out there. It is a very organized cyber crime.

Thoughts:

WOW! I know that this happens everyday all around us. But, I had no idea to what extent until I listened to this. It almost scares you to get online. Unfortunately, with technology going the way that it is, we have no choice. I have heard of numerous people that have been affected by this type of criminal activity.
I was surprised to know how in depth this type of activity goes. Hacker magazines, chat rooms where these individuals can go to brag, swap stories, get advice and tips. It is sad to know that this type of activity as run as a business.
In January of this year, someone got a hold of my Dixie One credit card number, while I was on vacation. Within two days, my grant money, and scholarship money had all been taken. This took almost four months to sort out. It literally was a nightmare. All I can say is I'm going to do what I can to keep my information private, and try to avoid this kind of thing happening to me again.

Privacy 2.0: Security v.s. Privacy

Privacy 2.0

Security v.s. Privacy

Today's post is in regards to the United States of Secrets video that is on pbs.org's Frontline that aired in May of 2014. To sum of the nearly three hour long video, is basically how the United States Government created "The Program" that allowed them to spy on American citizens. The interviews conducted in this video go back and forth between those that are saying that this is unconstitutional, unethical, unlawful, illegal, and a felony. Compared to those who support, justify, acknowledge, help, aid, and reinforce what the US Government is doing is legal.

After the tragedy of 9-11, General Hayden along with President Bush implemented "The Program". By the summer of 2002 "The Program" was fully operational. Numerous individuals tried to point out the fact that it was illegal to listen in on Americans without a valid search warrant. No one seemed to care what these individuals had to say. One individual by the name of Thomas Tamm even contacted the New York Times anonymously. Soon after notifications, President Bush threatened the New York Times. President Bush told them that if this information was leaked to the American citizens, that the next terrorist act would be on their hands. Regardless of the threat, the NY Times ran the story anyway. President Bush responded by holding a press conference and minimized the information, and down-playing what the "Program" was doing. Vice President Cheney was outraged and demanded that the FBI find the individuals responsible for the leak of information, and that they be punished. This investigation continued over the next several months, and was coming close to the end of President Bush's administration.

With Bush's administration nearing it's end, and with the knowledge of what the government was doing, Obama claimed to put an end to the secrecy during his campaign. Because of this President Bush convinced congress in July of 2008 to pass the FISA Law. Obama was one of the individuals who voted to keep the Surveillance Bill. After winning the election, President Obama was briefed on "The Program" in it's entirety and chose to keep the program. He approved to keep it, despite his promises to demolish the secrecy. President Obama also down-played what information the government had access to on several occasions.

In 2009, Edward Snowden, a National Security Association (NSA) contractor leaked to the world millions of records, and documentation that the government was collecting on ordinary citizens. With the information that Snowden had given the press showed that Verizon along with nine internet companies were supplying private information of millions of American citizens. Content from audio, photographs, e-mails, videos, and documents were being scanned by the government. President Obama again tried to down-play the severity of the governments actions by claiming that they were scanning for terrorist activity. He did this by stumbling over his words. With the information that came out Google claimed that they had given the government access to secure data and had no idea that the government was gaining access to all of Google's data. Google also claims that they have made it more difficult for the government to continue this type of activity.

I had a difficult time watching these interviews, listening to how the government seems to have gotten away with what they have done. Yet, they are punishing those individuals that are bringing this information to light. I feel that as citizens we have a right to know that the government is invading our privacy. It is interesting to me that the government uses the excuse, and reasoning for this is all in the name of security. There has to be a better way, a way that does not take away my right to privacy. I also feel that the government should be held accountable for breaking the law. They need to uphold the constitution and protect the American citizens. The government needs to reread the Preamble to the Constitution and abide by it.

We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

After watching this video on Frontline, I decided to "Google" how to protect my privacy. I thought that I was doing a pretty good job in doing this already, but realized that there are several more options to increase my level of privacy. In an article by Forbes Magazine, they give several ways to protect yourself, as well as and article by Time Magazine. Here is a list that combines both articles suggestions into one.

Privacy Protection:

1. Password protect your devices: your smart phone, your ipad, your computer, your tablet, etc...

2. Put a Google alert on your name.

3. Sign out of Facebook, Twitter, Gmail, etc. when you're done with your emailing, social networking, tweeting, and other forms of time-wasting.

4. Don't give out your e-mail, address, phone number, or zip code when asked.

5. Encrypt your computer.

6. Gmailers, turn on 2-step authentication in Gmail.

7. Pay in cash for embarrassing items.

8. Change your Facebook settings to "Friends Only".

9. Clear your browser history and cookies on a regular basis.

10. Use an IP Masker.

11. Don't fill out your social media profile.

12. Be choosy about sharing your social security number - even the last 4 digits.

13. Lock down your hardware.

14. Turn on private browsing.

15. Use a password vault that generates and remembers strong and unique passwords.

16. Lie when setting up password security questions.

Forbes magazine indicates that by just adding passwords is one of the simplest ways to protect and individuals privacy. Although this is one of the easiest safeguards, many chose not to use it because it is "annoying" to have to enter a password, sometimes more than one. How many of these individuals have become victims? I'm sure if we were to ask them now, they would have more passwords than anyone else. Hopefully this will be a reminder to increase our security measures to ensure our privacy.