Topic Proposal

For my analytical hypertext I would like to research the question, "Are technological advancements creating the collapse of culture?" I have chosen to examine Corey Doctorow's, Little Brother as a literary source, in order to give examples of human disconnect and a change in personal interaction. Through Marcus's conversations on the internet, the devices used for security at his high school, and the upcoming advancements in our society I hope to illuminate the collapse of culture as a result of technology. In relation to this topic I plan to incorporate other examples, such as Minority Report which exemplify technology as taking it too far. This then raises questions like "Is it okay for people with power to use culture as a means of social control, not just the government but the media?" Doctorow's novel presents situations in which questions like these are applicable. Marcus's relationship's with his parents, friends, girlfriend, and other internet users can be used to depict a lack of human interaction and social change. These questions apply to current advancements and internet sites/programs as well as to the topic of communications media. Who controls/influences what technology consumers want, need, and buy? For example, when the television was first sold in the mid 1900's advertisements showed the television as an essential and almost necessary part of life. Commercials with families sitting around watching tv together, or pictures of houses and living rooms with television sets, as if it was another piece of furniture. Advertisers slipped television into the lives of American's buy making it appear as if you needed it to keep up with the times/neighbors. What could happen if the same thing happens with programs like XNET or Pre-crime?

So far, I think I have a clear understanding of my question regarding the culture collapse, as well as the answer from Doctorow, yes, technology is changing/collapsing American culture, and lastly multiple supporting questions and examples to support the topic.