Friday, January 24, 2025

Blog Post 2

 History and workings of the U.S. Supreme Court

- How they were composed of nine justices 

- The case selection process (how they select what cases they want and believe are worthwhile)

Sandra Day O’Connor was the first woman to serve on the Court

- The video changed the way I thought of the supreme court by giving me a deeper insight of the actual process that things go through and how there are different levels to everything

Blog Post 3

 Eight Theories of Why Freedom is Important 

The Theory that resonates with me the most is the one that talks about stable change and giving people the right to vent when upset. This theory, known as the safety valve rationale, suggests that citizens should have the freedom to voice their opinions regarding contentious societal issues as a way to express their discontent with the government and its policies. By providing a platform for individuals to articulate their dissent peacefully, this principle aims to deter violent actions that could otherwise be used to draw attention to their grievances.  

What makes this theory particularly significant in today's world is its recognition of the diverse range of perspectives and opinions that exist within society. In an era where differing viewpoints can often spark tension and conflict, the safety valve rationale offers a constructive mechanism for individuals to engage in dialogue and debate without resorting to hostility or aggression. This resonates with me personally as I witness the importance of open communication and respectful discourse in being able to understand and cooperate with people who may have different beliefs than yourself. 


In many social settings, including online platforms and public areas, discussions about politics, policies, and other controversial topics are bound to happen. The ability for individuals to freely express their thoughts and feelings on these matters is crucial for maintaining a healthy exchange of ideas and perspectives. As someone who values the right to individual expression and believes in the power of dialogue to close gaps, I find the principles of the safety valve theory to be not only relevant but essential in promoting a harmonious and inclusive society.


Furthermore, the concept of allowing people the freedom to speak their minds without fear of repercussion or censorship aligns with the fundamental principles of democracy and freedom of speech. By safeguarding this principle, societies can create an environment where individuals feel empowered to participate in public discourse and contribute to the collective decision-making process. This empowerment not only enriches the democratic fabric of a nation but also fosters a sense of civic responsibility and engagement among its citizens. 


In essence, the safety valve rationale embodies a philosophy of social progress and harmony through the recognition and acceptance of diverse viewpoints and opinions. By upholding the right of individuals to express themselves openly and peacefully, this theory promotes a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and dialogue that is essential for navigating the complexities of modern society. As someone who values the principles of democracy, individual liberty, and constructive communication, I find the principles espoused by the safety valve theory to be both inspirational and crucial for building a more inclusive and tolerant world.

Blog Post 1

 Top 5 Sources of News and Information 


CNN: I appreciate and highly endorse this service due to its continuous 24/7 coverage, ensuring viewers are always informed and educated. One particularly impressive aspect is their unparalleled accessibility; whether you are on the move or relaxing at home on your couch, they are there for you. This reliable platform consistently delivers valuable content, catering to a wide range of audiences and enriching their viewing experience with informative and engaging material.

Fox:  By emphasizing the delivery of news and commentary via a certain lens that is consistent with viewers beliefs and viewpoints, Fox News targets a particular audience. Its capacity to captivate audiences with vibrant, personality-driven programming and opinion shows hosted by well-known individuals is its greatest asset. Fox News covers domestic politics in great detail, frequently giving priority to topics and viewpoints that appeal to its core viewership. Its focus on talks, debates, and live events makes for an interesting viewing experience. Furthermore, the network's image as a reliable resource for people looking for news that supports a more conservative viewpoint has been cemented by its capacity to foster a feeling of community among its audience. Fox News prioritizes viewer involvement, has a robust digital presence, and offers on-demand streaming alternatives.

WXII 12: This one is more of a local news station for things going on in the community. WXII 12's focus on community-driven reporting sets it apart as a reliable source of information for residents in the Triad area. The station's dedication to providing timely coverage of regional events, weather updates, and breaking news that directly impact the community showcases its commitment to keeping residents informed. With a team of experienced journalists and meteorologists, WXII 12 ensures accuracy and relevance in delivering information through live broadcasts, investigative stories, and severe weather alerts. By maintaining a strong connection to the local community and offering accessibility through television, online platforms, and mobile apps, WXII remains a go-to source for many to stay informed on what matters most in the region.

NBC: NBC News is widely recognized for its thorough coverage of both national and international affairs, skillfully merging up-to-the-minute news updates with in-depth investigative journalism. Renowned for programs such as NBC Nightly News, Meet the Press, and the Today show, NBC consistently delivers top-tier journalism through a variety of channels. Their seasoned journalists and anchors consistently offer viewers objective and insightful reporting, bolstered by meticulous investigative work and expert opinions. By prioritizing accuracy and timeliness, embracing digital technologies, and expanding onto streaming platforms, NBC News continues to serve as a trustworthy and easily accessible news source for a diverse audience.

Today Show:  The Today show, a popular and well-respected news program, offers a comprehensive blend of hard-hitting news and captivating lifestyle segments that cater to a diverse audience. The show not only covers current national and global events but also features insightful interviews, weather reports, and engaging cultural vignettes. This combination of serious journalism with lighter, relatable content distinguishes the Today show, providing viewers a truly exceptional morning experience that seamlessly blends informative reporting with entertaining segments. Boasting a rich history and a commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape.  


Thursday, January 23, 2025

Blog Post 4



Friedhelm Hillebrand and Bernard Ghillebaert are widely recognized for their pivotal role in the creation of SMS text messages, an innovation that has since become an integral and ubiquitous form of communication in today's society. Beginning their groundbreaking work in 1984 as part of the Global System for Mobile Communications team, they laid the foundation for a revolution in how people interact and connect through written messages on mobile devices. This foresight and dedication in 1992, marking a significant milestone when the first SMS message was sent, starting a new era of instantaneous, concise communication that continues to shape the way individuals across the globe communicate on a daily basis.


While working on a typewriter, Hillebrand's attention was piqued by the stark restriction of 160 characters, igniting a deep curiosity within him about the reason behind the arbitrary limit imposed on the amount one could convey through writing. Delving into this intriguing concept, he pondered the essence of brevity in effective communication and its intrinsic connection to clarity. Consequently, the profound realization hit him that the character threshold he had encountered could serve as encouraging and impactful messaging.


The primary issue that led to the development of SMS was the ability for a simple and efficient communication tool that could eliminate the reliance on traditional methods for staying connected with friends, family, and acquaintances. This revolutionary technology aimed at closing gaps and strengthening personal relationships through a quicker and more streamlined means of interaction, ultimately revolutionizing the way individuals engage. By providing a fast and convenient way to communicate, SMS not only became a medium for instant messaging but also served as a catalyst for transforming the dynamics of social interaction in a digital age, making it easier for people to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in real-time.


How SMS changed our lives. Over the course of the last two decades, text messaging, has significantly transformed various facets of our world. Its impact can be seen through the enhanced ease and convenience it brings to maintaining connections with others. Furthermore, as a modern means of communication, SMS offers individuals a creative outlet to express themselves beyond mere words, incorporating emoticons, emojis, and acronyms into their messages that add depth and personalization to their interactions. This shift in communication practices has not only revolutionized how we stay in touch with one another but has also allowed for new ways of self-expression and connection in our rapidly evolving digital era. 


While SMS is undeniably a wonderful tool that is beloved by many, it is not without its drawbacks. One particularly concerning issue is the prevalence of hackers who exploit SMS to deceive individuals into clicking on malicious links to, ultimately compromising their personal information and privacy. These security threats posed by malicious actors not only jeopardize the integrity of personal data but also raise significant concerns about the overall security of the communication platform. It is crucial for users to remain vigilant and to exercise caution when interacting with text messages to be aware of the risks associated with potential cyber threats.



Blog post 11

 Things I learned about propaganda  Propaganda is used in our everday lives whether we notice it or not (social media, billboards, signs, an...