SLM521SP03
Elective #10- Silicon Snake
Based on five
points that Clifford Stoll’s made in his book, Silicon Snake Oil:
Second Thoughts on the Information Superhighway, this site expresses my views about each
point.
"Computers
will deviously chew away at libraries from the inside."
Books and library references are considered invaluable resources, which are not replaceable. Librarians will have to make sure that all resources are available, which is their job. I do agree that librarians will have to maintain their computers skills. The Internet can be rewarding and visually exciting, which can get children to read the books in the library.
“The
importance of the written word.”
I believe that writing is extremely important, because we write so often…checks, bills, and more. However, I do think that typing is very helpful for students who have trouble with controlling their hand motions. Computers are the wave of the future and typing is just as important as writing. The nice thing is that computers allow for more work to be completed in less time.
“The
Utopian world with discussion and human interaction that dwells offline.”
I am hoping that
Stoll was trying to play devil's advocate at this point in his book. I am
online quite a bit and I know how easy it is too lose track of time. I know
that Stoll fears that being on the Internet all the time will cause users to
forget their families and the outside world. I think there is truth to that,
but at the same time I disagree. I stay in touch with all my college friends
who are miles and miles away from me by computer. When I move out of my house I
am sure the computer will help me stay in touch with my family. Control is the
issue. You need to have it so you don’t jeopardize the rest of your social
life!
“Computers
are not necessary for college studies.”
I believe that
computers are for college studies and anyone else! Although the use of the
library and physical books and documents cannot be replaced or overlooked, the
Internet allows research to be done at a faster rate without leaving home!
There must be balance between all types of research to retrieve accurate
information.
“Compassionate
doctors instead of computer adept doctors.”
I believe a
doctor can be both skilled on the computer and have a great bedside manner. You
need to be able to do both in today’s world. Not all doctors are good at
both, but those who are, are truly the best. With computers the physician can
explore, discover and research symptoms and illnesses on the Internet to better
assist their patients.