Midterm essay question
Here is a thought experiment SFC builds a new gorgeous campus, a beautiful lodge in Hawaii that provides luxury living and learning. Think of it like resort living with free college classes. BUT it will seem like you landed in 1920; this island is isolated and has no digital technology.
The only mass media are the old types: books (a full library), newspapers and local radio.
The campus does have music: vinyl records from the 1930s and before, pianos and many other acoustic instruments. But that’s all.
There is no internet, no TV, no movies. Don’t bother trying to sneak in a smart phone, there is no cell phone access. And you cannot be admitted with any new mass media technology; just books, paper and pens – to take notes and write (real) letters.
Your phones are surrendered at the start of the semester and returned when you leave.
It’s 100% free. SFC students will get top-quality room and board – every single expense is paid.
Sports and outdoor activities are free, and accessible: hike, swim, canoe, boat, snorkel or just wade in the ocean; a soccer field, football, basketball – you name it. All the equipment is provided for and medical care is free. But of course no cable TV of internet to watch games.
Semesters are short: five weeks (instead of fifteen). But remember, you are more or less in the wilderness. You won’t know what’s “trending” or be able to stream anything. No youtube, no instagram, no TikTok, no internet.
Question, and read the entire question before you answer.
Would you choose the nature campus experience, or not? Why? Be specific and refer to at least THREE things we discussed in class especially in terms of the lack of technology.
Could you live without the technology, or not? What do you think you would miss the most, and how do you think your life might improve? What would go wrong… and right for you? Cite scientific evidence, and cite sources below your essay. (100 word min.)
