Several interesting topics and concepts were discussed in this week’s reading assignments. One of the major topics was the role of network(ing) in media. According to Manuel Castalls, “networks are becoming the preferred way or organizing in virtually all domains of social life” (Stalder 170). While I wouldn’t go so far as saying all, definitely a lot of social life is inspired by networks. Social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter definitely allow a person to contact and maintain ties with a large number of contacts through networks. While the network could be something as simple as a group of persons who attended the same high school/college or share a passion for the same sports team, these networks provide immediate access to a group of individuals with a common interest. While networking is certainly not new, technology has certainly expanded its capabilities, as well as the distance between members of a network.

Boyd went more in-depth about social networking and the impact that it may have, both now and in the years ahead. She described some of the features of social media sites, such as the profile, which is somewhat of your online introduction to the audience. Also, she talked about friends lists, which is where you develop your network to the people you are affiliated with. Even more importantly, she gave great insight on topics such as “invisible audiences” – meaning people who while are not the intended target of information that you post, certainly have access to it and can use it for their own personal entertainment, “searchability”, which is the ability to locate and track a person once they have registered themselves into the world of social media, and the fine line between what can be considered public and what can be considered private.

In Marshall’s book, we were given insight on the means that we are often introduced to new technology, and our reasons for being fascinated by new technology. Media outlets, such as newspaper articles and television shows have been designated to introduce us to new mediums of technology, and also how to adapt to technological advancements. One example of the new types of technology that one of these venues would highlight was the phenomenon of satellite radio. Although radio has obviously been around for years, and is free to its consumers (as long as you own a receiver), there are still those of us who choose to purchase satellite services. Due to the advancement of technology, a person is able to subscribe to a satellite station. These stations are often commercial-free, and offer an opportunity to listen to their preferred style of music, even down to a particular artist that they like. These new methods of technology feed into the idea that accessibility and the ability to filter the unwanted from the wanted fuels our passion for an ever-changing technology.