RJA #2c: Delicious Account

The link to Jon-Michael Grant's delicious account is here.

RJA #2b: Research Topic

My topic is how the English language and the way people spend their time has changed, in my opinion, for the worst, with the introduction of cellular phones and "social networking" websites. I chose this topic because I feel that it is becoming hard to have a conversation with someone without involving some sort of keyboard. Everywhere I turn, I hear about websites such as twitter, facebook, and myspace, and I feel these are taking away valuable time from the people who use them. Also, I personally find that grammar and proper English are a thing of the past as people are talking more and more in abbreviations that are substituted for real sentences. Social skills and emotion less common as well.

I know what these websites are used for in everyday life, but I also feel that they are being overused to the point that they are depriving people of many life experiences. I also know that text messaging is a convenient luxury to have when a person needs to relay information quickly, but cannot make a call; however, I feel it, like the websites, is overused and abused. If I have something to say to someone, I would rather give that person a call and say everything I need to say and the other person do the same. There is no sentiment in a text message that says "I Love You." I that person truly means that he/she loves the other person, there is no reason they cannot call the other person and tell them.

I don't know why people spend so much time using these "indirect" means of communication but I would like to find out. Maybe there are other reasons for these websites that I am unclear about. I find it troubling when I hear people talking to me in three letter abbreviations that I am supposed to understand. This issue is just beginning to occur and I know that things change with time, but I hope our ability to show emotion and our brain power do not.

RJA #2a: Possible Topics

The topic for my research paper is how the English language and the way people spend their time has changed since the recent boom in technology. This includes cellular phones and such internet sites as twitter, myspace, and facebook.

RJA #1: Areas of Academic Interest

As a history major, naturally, one of my academic interests is history. I am mostly interested in European history such as the Renaissance and Ancient Empires such as Rome and Greece. I am also interested in the history of Baseball, including statistics and players. One other area that is of great interest to me is music. I am currently reading a book which is a compilation of thirty-one interviews with Bob Dylan. In my opinion, he is an incredible songwriter and I enjoy his views on many issues. Music, sports, and History are my biggest areas of interest.