Choose two of the following prompts to respond to in a short, multi-paragraph answer of approximately 500-800 words (each): 650 words
1. In “Consumption and Community: The Subcultural Contexts of Disparate Marijuana Practices in Jam Band and Hip-Hop Scenes”, what differences between the jam band and hip-hop scenes were noted by the researchers in the sharing of marijuana at shows? How did this illustrate different values found in the jam band and hip-hop scenes? Explain, and provide examples from the reading. Finally, do you think that examining drug use in subcultures to learn more about their values is an effective approach? Why, or why not?
2. What reasons does Roger Ebert provide for not liking 3D movies? List as many of his points as possible, proving examples where appropriate. Why does he believe that Hollywood continues to pursue technological innovation at the expense of filmic storytelling? Do you agree with Ebert’s assessment? Why, or why not?
3. In “Is Everybody Hanging Out Without Me? Comparing Ourselves to Others and the Importance of Being Liked”, what issues with social media, comparison, and inauthenticity are discussed by the interviewed students? Describe and explain with examples. Do you—or people close to you—experience the same types of problems? Why, or why not?
4. In “Playing a Better Me: How Players Rehearse Their Ethos via Moral Choices”, what did the authors conclude about the idea of games as “safe spaces” or “judgement-free zones”? How did the various players interviewed deal with the discomfort or shame of playing a “bad” character? Provide specific examples where appropriate. Finally, do you believe that it is possible to disentangle ‘game’ morality from ‘real life’ morality? Why, or why not?
Note that a good answer will refer to specifics from the course (readings, lecture notes) but also include original examples and anecdotes that extend beyond the course content. Your document should include a title page. No citations are required, although you should informally note sources where appropriate within your response (e.g. "In a 2020 New York Times article, Terry Crews claimed that...").