Midterm Examination: Sociology 049, Computers, the Internet and Society

John Ratliff, February 10, 2006

Answer the following short-essay questions. Write a brief essay of two to three double-spaced, typewritten pages on each. Be cogent, organized, coherent. Show your knowledge of the material given out in lecture and in the readings, but make your own argument. Cite sources, examples, from the readings and lecture. You must show that you have done the reading! Please give concrete examples. Your essays should consist of a series of reasoned claims supported by evidence, rather than unsupported subjective opinions.

You are strongly encouraged to come talk to me about your essay during the writing process. Email is okay too, although I can't answer at length in that format.

1) The development of the PC and the rise first of Apple, then of Microsoft, illustrate how technological innovation often comes from those in relatively marginal positions in society, rather than existing central institutions (in this case, IBM). This is the foundation of the Distributive Revolution of computer power. It illustrates the distinction between invention and innovation. In briefly describing the narrative put forward in “Pirates of Silicon Valley,” and supported by the Timeline online, as well as Cairncross, discuss these issues. Discuss the role of Moore’s Law in this process in your answer. Note: be sure to discuss the structural issues of de facto standards, differing innovative strategies of Microsoft and Apple and differing product architectures raised in lecture and the Morris and Ferguson article. Try to make sociological arguments in your answer.

2) The Internet emerged from its defense research and academic origins to fulfill the role envisioned by government and corporate leaders for the National Information Infrastructure. How and why did this "accidental revolution” occur, and how is the network structure that emerges different from what the NII was originally planned to be? What are the factors that have led to the Internet's rapid growth? In particular, discuss the historical development on the Internet, paying particular attention to the social process summarized by Metcalfe’s Law. What are the advantages and disadvantages of doing business in Cyberspace? Be sure to use the Economist and other readings to support your arguments. For a meatier essay, embrace the arguments of the World of Ends website.

EXAM WILL BE DUE IN CLASS ON WEDNESDAY, FEB. 22^ND.