Eli pariser beware online filter bubbles

OBJECTIVE: View/listen to two TED talks that have a common thread, listed in the Week 2 items. There is an option for closed captioning on each one if you need it. As you watch them, take notes – what is the main argument (thesis) of the talk? How does the speaker support that argument? Think about quote-worthy bits you might use. Whether you agree or disagree with the speakers’ positions is not important – we’re evaluating their skill in argument in general, not whether they persuaded us individually.

After you’ve experienced both talks, review your notes and devise your own thesis about what these two pieces have in common, how they are in conversation with one another and what the overall message is (this last part is up to you – there’s no wrong answer). Discuss the pieces, using quotes or references as necessary, and apply it to your own idea about a “single story” or “filter bubble” you have experienced.

Please type and submit your response, which should be at least two pages in length (12-point font, MLA format for the paper; do your best with the citations). Your response should have a clear thesis, supported by your own discussion and examples from the talks. Consider this first assignment a writing sample; please do your best so that I can properly assess the current skills of the class.