Question

Review the viewpoints of Henry Jenkins, Steven Johnson, and Nicholas Carr. How do Steven Johnson and Nicholas Carr think convergence is affecting culture and society? Whose argument do you find more compelling and why" (Lule, 2015, p. 30)?

Answer 1

Steven Johnson and Nicholas Carr offer contrasting views on the impact of convergence on society. Johnson's optimistic take on convergence enabling diversity aligns with observations on information access, while Carr critiques its superficial nature on engagement.

Step-by-step explanation:

How Steven Johnson and Nicholas Carr view the impact of convergence on culture and society is a nuanced debate. Steven Johnson posits that convergence fosters complexity and empowers consumers by providing more choice and freedom, contributing to social and cultural diversity. On the other hand, Nicholas Carr is critical of convergence, suggesting that the Internet's impact on culture encourages skimming and superficial engagement, potentially diminishing deep reading and thinking.

Between the two, I find Steven Johnson's argument more compelling; his optimistic perspective on the democratizing power of technology aligns with my observations about how it has broadened access to information and opportunities for learning and engaging in the public sphere.