TOPIC 1 wk 2 Q.B

b) p. 3+ According to Lister et al., some commentators stress the ‘newness’ of new media, but others (such as Kevin Robins) can be seen to be saying that nothing fundamental has changed, because new media technology is another product of capitalism, and therefore will fit into and serve a pre-existing capitalist society and culture, rather than transform it in any fundamental sense. Any thoughts? Can we critique this position?

I think this is a simple case of whether you agree or don't agree. As it has already been shown that 'new media' encompasses so many different types of things into the equation, I believe it would be impossible to tar it all with the same brush.

I believe in regards to digital media as we know it (PCs, cameras, phones etc) that there is nothing particularly 'new'. In regards to question A below, they are a good business opportunity to get people with the money and consumerist habits to shell out for a new upgraded product. The technology gets faster, more powerful and more effective but overall it is still the same product. However, if we take into consideration 'new' new media I believe we are pushing our society and culture forward. New technology can make our PCs faster but they can also save lives. They can improve our medical knowledge and they can give us a whole new way at looking at old problems. Surely, this is 'newness' that is important and exciting?

In conclusion, I believe new technology is important. In regards to capitalism - that is a view on the entire country and shouldn't be fixed to everything as the only answer. It just depends on your point of view.