Movie Reflection: 'Thank You For Smoking'

 'Thank You for Smoking' is a film that offers different perspectives on a career where an individual's ethics and morals are tested every day. The film follows lobbyist Nick Naylor who found growing success and respect for advertising and defending tobacco companies within America, but not without the pressure of his own values of being a father. Throughout the film there were characters who pushed and persuaded Nick Naylor to continue to advertise the use of tobacco such as his fellow lobbyist friends and his boss as they saw just how good he was at his job. Though, he had to face the challenge of not only the public's opinion, but also opinions from his own family who know how morally taxing the tobacco industry was. 

Naylor's perspective on his own persuasive skills changed throughout the movie as in the beginning he was confident, witty and shameless in shaping the tobacco industry in positive light. This introduced a unique moral element to the film in which having the talent to be able to convince and influence individuals about something that is harmful raises ethical dilemmas. The character constantly argues and deflects that smoking is a personal choice, and that freedom of choice is a morally neutral tool in which he uses. Nick Naylor is self-aware of the potential harm his persuasiveness may have, yet he is also aware that he is not a part of the only industry that can be self-serving and manipulative to the public. The film makes a point that every industry has its own "Nick Naylor" from journalists, politicians and even food companies who are just trying to persuade and sell their products/services to the public. 

Yet, by the end of the film Naylor knows when it is time to step away as he becomes self-aware of the company he is working for, an industry that kills over a thousand people a day. As the ending unfolds, he begins to get stripped of everything he built his identity around and is publicly humiliated. Though with his son on the forefront of his mind, he uses his confidence and satire to shift his argument. Naylor talked about moral flexibility throughout the film to his son and it wasn't until the ending scene at the congressional hearing where we got the real personal values of Nick Naylor. He was a father who wanted to be a good parent and cared about his son admiring who he was, he wanted his son to be proud of having him as a father.

The ending brings a element of reality to the film as Naylor tries to balance his work and personal life and his ethical values begin to shift as we see him become more of a true father figure. He shifts from a moral flexibility mindset to getting into the habit of actually deciding and doing what he believes in, which is being there for his son and himself. The films perspective change explains how moral flexibility allows individuals to work and adjust within complex industries but being able to know what you truly believe in and stand up for is important. 'Thank You for Smoking' is a film that describes the reality of working for many industries today, especially those who often use the same tactics that was presented in the film. 

EOTO #1: The History of Cassette Tape's

The evolution of technology over the last 200 years has meant an evolution of how we communicate as a society, more specifically it has led to inventing more ways for individuals to listen and experience the world as we know it today. The invention of the cassette tape revolutionized day to day listening as it offered convenience, personalization and affordability during an era where communication was truly significant. 

 

The cassette tape was invented by the Dutch engineer Lou Ottens in 1962 for the Phillips technology company. Ottens was looking for a more efficient and portable way to record audio and an alternative listening format. It was first intended as a medium for voice recording and dictation as it was introduced at the Berlin Radio Show in 1963, but it quickly captured the attention of the music industry. This led to a cultural shift in how daily audio and music was consumed as the compact size and ease of use quickly made cassette tapes the standard audio format from the late 70s to the early 90s. Especially for the younger generation who did not have the means to purchase expensive vinyl records or reel to reel tapes. 

Their growing popularity led to further audio inventions such as the Sony Walkman in which shifted the way people experienced music and created the idea of casual everyday listeners. The small, mobile, inexpensive device allowed individuals to listen to cassette tapes and AM/FM radio on the go. This translates into how music is experienced today in which music is now everywhere with the touch of a button, whether that's through our phones, in our cars, or even our computers. Although more digitalized, the sounds and feelings music gives are still evident. 

Cassettes became a more recognized format for music distribution and recording which gave rise to independent underground music artists and bands as they could record and distribute their songs without the need for a major record label backing. It allowed for the spread of new sounds, music samples and evolved the idea of a mixtape. This let people curate and share their own music collections as an expression of personality or even for their friends or those who they love. 

Cassette tapes are also known for their lo-fi, raw, and warm, sound quality that often gave early indie rock and folk artists their unique aesthetic. Such as Bruce Springsteen who recorded and distributed his album, Nebraska on a cassette recorder because of the distorted audio and sound it held, he simply couldn't replicate even with the most expensive studio equipment. This creative boom was also seen throughout hip-hop and urban dance culture as it allowed music to be experienced at your feet through boomboxes. 

Other than cassette tapes popularity among the music industry, they also played a significant role in other cultures and communities. They were used for personal and educational recordings for other forms of information, such as language instruction and even audio books. Also, in nonwestern communities in which often had state-controlled radio and music systems, cassettes allowed them to communicate, spread social movements and even share music that was deemed improper, offensive or dangerous. 

As digital formats began to take over, and cassette tapes became a part of history, its impact is still talked about today. Although the audio wasn't always perfect and clear, cassette tapes have given humans a nostalgic feeling, which is why many artists still create cassettes today and why individuals still build collections of them. Cassette tapes gave rise to the idea of experiencing music in a new way, or in a way that music didn't have to sound perfect all the time. 

The Future of Journalism

 

AI has become an integral part of the rising debate in the present world on if and when technology and robots will soon take over the working class and many careers with it. When it comes to AI in Journalism there a few tools that have become fundamental to the revolution and efficiency of how news is produced and consumed. Yet, with this shift there has been a rise in significant challenges and ethical questions that concerns the future of journalism. 

Recently, many companies have begun to invest in AI technologies to enhance their operations as it has offered endless possibilities to their businesses. Such as using tools to analyze large data sets quickly, assisting in fact checking when cross-referencing information and even aiding in graphical communication. This has allowed journalists to focus on more of the personal and complex part of writing and enhance the productivity of the reporting and editorial process of the news

Although there are a few benefits to AI that increases the efficiency of journalism, there are many ethical challenges when it comes to using these tools. There is a lack of transparency in AI in which raises algorithmic biases, low-quality writing, false news and the spread of propaganda. When it comes to relying on generative AI to create content that faces a mass audience it means it is not always going to be reliable and will make mistakes. 

AI in journalism is a topic that undoubtedly raises concerns, although it can be efficient in a few specific roles of the career, all it essentially does is repurpose and alter existing knowledge. I think there are positive ways to use AI to make journalism more efficient, yet journalism will continue to be a fascinating career as they have the ability move their audiences in compelling human ways and bring original ideas. 

Online Privacy

In the advancement of our society through technology, there has been an ongoing conversation and debate about online privacy and critical data collection. Although technology has a multitude of benefits, it has become scary to live in a nation where civil rights are at risk and individuals have no privacy due to the lack of regulations. The United States government is continuously talking about national security as the reason for the files upon files containing personal data and the daily lives of Americans. Yet companies and government have allowed for the collection of sensitive data without realizing they aren't the only ones who can gain access to individuals private information. 

There is a lag within the advancement of technology as many websites and online platforms still do not contain the security that they should. I think it is important for major companies and government officials to not be able to get into our daily private lives, conversations, and even our locations. As this has made it easy for criminals and hackers to also obtain individuals sensitive information. I've personally been affected as apps that were deemed safe to use and downloaded by thousands of others once collected my personal information. My parents have also been affected by these privacy leaks in which has caused their banking information to be hacked even though those online companies promised the safety of the website. 

Another perspective on our online privacy as a society is a topic of electronic tattoos, talked about in the TedTalk by Juan Enriquez. In which our online life is forever permanent in a way that individuals must be careful of how they are perceived online as it may affect their personal and professional lives. Although, the innovation of technology and more specifically social media has brought a ray of positivity to the world as a way to share cultural and community. It is still used as a form of privacy communication between the government and individuals' personal information. Through the sharing of location, facial recognition, shopping habits and even personal communication between other individuals. This surveillance has caused lots of controversy between the citizens of the United States and the government as a violation of rights issue. 

With this it is important to protect and secure our personal data in any efficient way that we can by beginnings by securing how we communicate via encrypted platforms such as IMessage, WhatsApp and more. Encrypted communication doesn't allow anyone to access your conversations other than you and the recipients; therefore no company can access it. Another way to protect your privacy is by limiting location tracking through mobile apps and regularly review what apps on your devices you don't use anymore and delete them. App and website users must take active steps to protect the tracking of their data through their device settings in which controls what information websites collect.

This will forever be a continuous debate on the online privacy of society as technology as allowed for data to become permanent just like tattoos. it is important to stay informed and up to date with the latest's new and updates on government privacy laws and regulations. As well as advancements in technology to ensure your daily life and personal information stays private and secure. 

Eight Values of Free Expression

Ever since the declaration of the First Amendment, American society has created a culture in which freedom of speech is protected and encouraged. Without the First Amendment and what it stands for, the United States and its citizens would not be what it is today. A country that allows an exchange of ideas, American identity and a culture that allows for protected communication between its citizens and the government. The First Amendment can be separated into the Eight Values of Free Expression in which highlights why and how the First Amendment creates a knowledgeable and stable society.

Individual Self-Fulfillment 

A theory explained by C. Edwin Baker that resonates the most with me is the Individual Self-Fulfillment one gets from the First Amendment. Individual Self-Fulfillment isn't only about the values and merit of being a part of American society, but the freedom to think, create and choose in said society. Thinking about the history of America, Freedom of Speech has allowed individuals to make significant changes in American government. Important figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., Jame's Baldwin, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and many more who constructed America into what it is today all because they had a protected right to turn a dream, a possibility, into a lived reality.

Individual Self-Fulfillment still is and will continue to bring changes to make America into a community full of even more possibilities. In the 21st century it has become a way for individuals to widespread social movements through art, print, and even social media. It has become a foundational concept as it has given communities protection of their rights during times it is most important for political changes or even creative self-expression. Individual Self-Fulfillment will continue to be a pillar in American culture through human dignity and autonomy.

                                                                   Promote Tolerance 

Lee C. Bollinger explores the value of Promote Tolerance that is built within the rights of the First Amendment in which I think is key to a stable community. As a society in America, communities have developed patience and emotional discipline when in situations where conflict arises. When it comes to free speech and press there is bound to be arguments and disagreements between individuals. Yet, as a culture, America has a developed acceptable and nonacceptable behavioral standards. In which people acknowledge and respect other values, culture and opinions. Promoting tolerance strengthens America's ability to collectively coexist and work together while living in a diverse society. It is inevitable to not encounter others' views and opinions in which some may disagree with, which is why it is important to know the value of learning to disagree respectfully.

Bollinger's analysis explains how this tolerance strengths society and builds a stable community. The right and protection of free speech has allowed individuals to full express themselves, their ideas, their culture and shape a country that is built on significant social movements. Promote Tolerance is woven into the system of the First Amendment in which makes individuals endure and tolerate conflict and learn how to live in harmony. 

The Eight Values of Free Expression emphasizes the importance of free speech in American society and how it has shaped the government and culture citizens live in today. Without the First Amendment, The United States would not be a democracy and would be significantly different. America's history was written because of the rights and protections the First Amendment gives its citizens. 

Top 5 Sources of News

1. Rolling Stone

As a music lover Rolling Stone magazine is one that I am always reading to get the latest updates in the music industry. Yet, it is also a good source of national news as they are also a website/magazine that gives updates on politics, sports, and other entertainment cultures. Rolling Stone is engaging and diverse as they always have a new story to feature. 

2. Tik Tok

Ever since COVID-19, Tik Tok has become a major source of news and communication as many news stations, national and local, have created a way for viewers to get a quick recap of recent news. This has become one of the most convenient forms of not only entertainment but news stories in all types of industries such as business, government, Sports, etc.

3. CNN

I grew up watching CNN10 as they talk about national and international headlines, but also small community stories that aren't often heard. They are diverse in their news announcements as they talk about history and how it correlates to modern day changes as well as entertainment or even new discoveries. I go to CNN when I need quick but in-depth information on new important events going on around the world. 

                                                                  4. WRAL 

Growing up in North Carolina I often experience all four seasons in just one day, so it is important for me to check the weather daily in which WRAL has become a daily resource for me. I am able to see what kind of weather events are happening locally or even internationally as it is important to be prepared for what may come.  

5. Substack 

Substack has been a recent discovery of mine and I find myself on their app daily. It has become a place that talks about all types of news such as the traditional categories of government and entertainment, but as well as news articles that you don't often read. Such as ones about Psychology, health developments, traditional art, and more. Substack creates a world that is full of not only important news but as well as creative news that isn't overwhelming, but fascinating.