I think the title the Machine is Us/ing Us means that although we think we are using machines to watch videos, to share our thoughts, or to learn something new – we are really pouring our lives into them. We are “teaching” the machine, just like the video says.
I think that Web 2.0 could either really help or really hinder someone looking to enter the workforce. Potential employers can easily look a person up online; it is very easy to do… and you can learn so much! People searching for a job may not like what their employers can learn about them, and employers may refuse to hire someone because of something they’ve found online. On the other hand, Web 2.0 can really help with job searching. There are several job search websites out there, as well as sites with resume writing tips or other general job information. Additionally, there are countless online communities out there who are more than willing to help with anything!
For people who are already in the workforce, I expect that Web 2.0 only makes their job easier. Sure, there are the same risks that whatever they post online could be found by their employer and used against them, but I think, overall, the benefits outweigh the risks. For instance, do you need to look up a definition? Need to find a quick quote? Need to know Olympic results? Need to find a chemical formula? You name it! You can find anything online… instantly!
When it says that we need to rethink everything, I think it means that nothing will ever be the same again. Several of the old rules don’t apply anymore. We are changing as a society… the internet is bringing out the best and the worst of us. We’re young in the internet experience, we’re growing up. We are discovering who we are. The only certain thing is that we will continue to develop, to change. To quote Anthony D'Angelo: “[Change] is the only thing that will remain constant.” (Guess what, I found that online!)
Who knows where this will lead us?
