How does the online culture that Ronson describes lead to a “surveillance state

Unit 4 Reading 12 Ronson 

1.         Throughout the text, Ronson uses the words “we” and “our.” Whom is he referring to? Do you consider yourself part of this readership?

2.         Ronson sketches the benefits and the costs of social media in public discourse. Give an example from the essay that shows both.

3.         When is public shaming appropriate? Can it be taken to different degrees in different situations?

4.         What, according to Ronson, is the relationship between online interactions and in-person interactions?

5.         What, according to Ronson, should be the purpose of platforms like Facebook and Twitter?

6.         When someone says something inappropriate, what is the importance of that person’s intentions? What does Ronson believe the importance is?

7.         How does Ronson’s position as a journalist influence his interpretations?

8.         Is there anyone that Ronson believes is not deserving of curiosity or empathy?

9.         How does the online culture that Ronson describes lead to a “surveillance state”? Is there an alternative outcome? Why or why not?

10. Do you always know wrongdoing when you see it? Do you always identify it? What influences whether you do or don’t?