Selfe Summary Group #2

In Cynthia L. Selfe's essay, "Lest We Think the Revolution is a Revolution," expresses the impact technology has done around the world and for the world. The first narrative in this piece, "The 'Global Village' and the 'Electronic Colony'" explains how technology has brought the world together where we can all connect together, free from prejudice (294). Although this "global village" creates togetherness, it also loses the individuality, that when entered into this tribe, you are just another citizen. Even though we consider this a whole, America seems to be the leader when it comes to technology and because of our history, we limit ourselves to technical changes within out culture. Technology is trying to be reached all over the world, but there are barriers within this selection. Selfe says, "...the global village retains its geographical reach, but it becomes a world in which different cultures, different peoples, exist to be discovered, explores, marveled at- in a sense, known and claimed by- those who can design and use technology" (295). Those who understand it are in control, but technology can't reach to most places around the world so how can they keep up? America is further ahead with technology then others and it's constantly being changed like in advertisements. On pages 296-300, Selfe uses advertisement that brings the new world of technology and the more traditional life together in one. Unfortunately, America uses ads like this for their own benefit. For example, Selfe uses a Virgin (296) that says they will donated a part of any profits they get from sales they get to those around the world who need it. Using this technique gets them more buyers because the consumers think they are doing a good thing by buying their product and having part of their money profiting those who need it.