Ready Scholar One

Some old games are being reimagined as television shows, movies, and mobile
apps; even their soundtracks are sometimes revived for orchestral performance;
even their soundtracks are sometimes revived for orchestral performance. But these
adaptations require looking at how these games fit into the present moment. For
instance, in the 1980s, the popular title The Oregon Trail taught millions of American
kids how hard it was to settle the west without dying of dysentery. But the game has
since been criticised for celebrating the destruction of the environment and the
defeat of indigenous peoples. The developers of a more recent version tried to
address these concerns. Review the following examples, then discuss with your
team: which of them would you suggest redesigning to address similar concerns
before being rereleased today?

■ Seven Cities of Gold | Sid Meier's Pirates! | Doom

■ Ghost of Tsushima | Rampage | Assassin's Creed | Freedom

TETRIS
Tetris is a video game that was developed in 1985 by Alex Pajitnov. In Tetris, players
complete lines by moving differently shaped pieces (tetrominoes), which descend onto the
playing field. The completed lines disappear and grant the player points, and the player
can proceed to fill the vacated spaces. The game ends when the uncleared lines reach the
top of the playing field.

Tetris Effect- a psychological phenomenon that occurs when people devote so much time
and attention to something that it begins to pattern their thoughts, mental images, and
dreams

The introduction of a new Apple TV+ movie delves into the true story behind Tetris's
global fame, focusing on Henk Rogers' quest to secure licensing rights from the Soviet
Union after his encounter with the game in 1988.
Rogers meets Alexey Pajitnov in Moscow, and despite challenges posed by Soviet
bureaucracy, they collaborate to elevate Tetris to international prominence.
Legal battles ensue, involving Rogers, Hungarian businessman Robert Stein, and others,
as they vie for ownership rights.
Negotiations are complicated by Cold War tensions and bureaucratic hurdles, but Rogers
navigates them, even entering Moscow on a tourist visa to advance discussions.
Rogers forms a lasting friendship with Pajitnov, and together they ensure Tetris's creator
receives rightful credit and compensation.
MOBILE APPS
● Super Mario Run: The iconic plumber's adventure reimagined for mobile with
side-scrolling platformer gameplay and one-handed controls.
● Bully: Anniversary Edition: Rockstar Games' cult classic brought to smartphones,
allowing players to navigate a boarding school, attend classes, and engage in
battles.
● Pokemon Go: Revolutionized mobile gaming by blending augmented reality with
the Pokemon franchise, encouraging real-world exploration.
● Sims Mobile: Preserves the charm of The Sims franchise on smartphones,
allowing players to create characters, build homes, and pursue various life paths.
● Pac-Man: The classic maze-chomping game adapted for mobile, offering nostalgic
gameplay and competitive challenges.
● Minecraft: The block-building phenomenon translated to smartphones, enabling
players to craft, build, and explore vast worlds.
● Tetris: The timeless puzzle game seamlessly transitions to smartphones with
touchscreen controls and various game modes.
● RollerCoaster Tycoon Touch: Lets players build and manage their own amusement
parks on smartphones, offering deep gameplay and creative possibilities.
● Street Fighter 4 Champion Edition: Mobile adaptation of the iconic fighting game
series, featuring intense battles and precise controls.
● Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas: Experience the criminal underworld of San
Andreas on mobile, with an expansive open world and immersive storytelling

VIDEO GAMES

Oregon Trail is an educational video game

simulating 19th-century pioneer life,
teaching history, decision-making, and
resource
management
Seven Cities of Gold is an
through interactive
exploration and strategy game set in the Age of
gameplay.
Exploration, teaching geography, resource
management, and history.
Sid Meier's Pirates! is an adventure and "Doom" is an FPS video game developed by id
strategy game where players become pirates, Software in 1993. Set on Mars' moons, it follows a
space marine battling demons unleashed by a
teaching history, strategy, navigation, and teleportation experiment gone wrong. Playing as the
diplomacy "Doomguy," players fight through waves of demons
to close the portal and prevent Earth's invasion.

Ghost of Tsushima is an
action-adventure game set in feudal Japan,
offering cultural insights, samurai history,
and open-world exploration.
"Rampage" is an arcade classic where players control
giant monsters destroying cities while battling
military forces.

Assassin's Creed is an action-adventure

game series with historical settings, blending
fiction with real events, offering insights into
"Freedom!" is a video game developed by 6waves
history, culture, and stealth gameplay.
and published by Dark Mobile. Released in 2012, it is
a real-time strategy (RTS) game set in a futuristic
dystopian world. Players take on the role of rebel
forces fighting against a tyrannical government,
aiming to liberate territories and overthrow the
 oppressive regime.

OREGON TRAIL GAME

● The Oregon Trail Game is a historical computer game. It was Created in 1971; the
1985 Apple II version gained popularity.
● Players choose professions to determine starting money. Party setup involves
naming travelers for the journey. Supplies are bought at Matt's General Store.
● The journey spans 2000+ miles with landmarks along the way.Players explore
landmarks, make decisions on river crossings, and hunt. Random events include
diseases, accidents, and encounters with Native Americans.
● Trail choices affect the route and experiences. Wagon maintenance involves repairs
or replacement of parts.
● The final leg offers rafting down the Columbia River or taking the Barlow Road.
● Success results in points tallying and potential inclusion in the Oregon Top Ten list

OREGON TRAIL NEW VERSION

● The Oregon Trail game holds cultural significance and nostalgia.

● Originally played on old Apple II computers in schools.
● New remake titled "The Oregon Trail" by Gameloft received positive reviews.
● Maintains the core journey but adds character stats for customization.
● Divided into five legs with randomized paths and manageable gameplay.
● The game addresses the lack of Native American representation and offers scenarios
from their perspective.

OREGON TRAIL GAME’S CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

This article discusses the cultural significance of the video game "The Oregon Trail" and its
history. The original game was released in 1971 and played a key role in computer education
from the 1970s to the 1990s. However, it glorified settler colonialism and omitted
Indigenous perspectives. In 2020, Gameloft decided to remake the game and hired Native
studies scholars to ensure respectful representation of Indigenous peoples. The scholars
reflect on their role in the game's redevelopment and the importance of integrating
Indigenous perspectives into popular narratives of the American West in educational and
entertainment contexts.

● To experience the OG Oregon Trail, you won’t need to track down a floppy
disk and an Apple II; you can easily find an emulation online. Explore the
surprisingly active world of retrogaming. Some gamemakers are even finding
success in creating games that feel like vintage ones. Discuss with your team:
should people play vintage games before they play modern ones?
RETROGAMING
-Retrogaming, also known as classic gaming and old school gaming, is the playing and
collection of obsolete personal computers, consoles, and video games. Usually,
retrogaming is based upon systems that are outmoded or discontinued, although ported
retrogaming allows games to be played on modern hardware via ports or compilations. It is
typically for nostalgia, preservation, or authenticity.
-Nintendo's release of the Classic Mini NES in 2016 sparked a frenzy among gamers,
selling out instantly due to high demand, with scalpers reselling it at a significant markup.
-The success of the NES Classic Mini highlighted the popularity of retro gaming, appealing
to both older gamers seeking nostalgia and younger players interested in classic titles.
-Retro games from the 8-bit to 16-bit era evoke nostalgia among older gamers, with titles
like Super Mario Bros and The Legend of Zelda holding enduring appeal.
-Indie developers in the 2000s carved a niche for themselves by creating retro-style games,
with titles like Cave Story demonstrating the demand for such experiences.
-Modern retro games blend nostalgia with innovative gameplay mechanics, offering
simpler experiences compared to sprawling AAA titles.
-Games like Celeste, Sonic Mania, The Messenger, Enter the Gungeon, Bloodstained:
Curse of the Moon, Shovel Knight, and Undertale have received critical acclaim for their
faithful recreation of retro aesthetics and innovative gameplay.
-Undertale, in particular, stands out for its unique gameplay mechanics, storytelling, and
innovative approach to player choice.
-Retro-inspired games offer a balance between nostalgia and reinvention, often showcasing
more innovation than some AAA titles despite smaller budgets and risk-taking by indie
developers.

● Explore kusoge—old video games that are sought out by gamers because
they are broken, incoherent, or poor in quality. Other lower-quality
technologies, from Polaroids and obsolete digital cameras to audio cassettes
and low-fi beats, are also finding success with modern consumers. A few
directors are even downscaling their shows to look more retro. Discuss with
your team: what factors explain why some old products become popular again
while others don’t?

ARTICLE 1
- Polaroid declared bankruptcy in 2001, ceasing instant film production by 2008 due to
digital photography's rise.
- Despite the functional demise of the company which still exists as a licensing firm of
sorts, - Polaroid lives on as the all-encompassing label for any instant photography, even if
it isn’t actually made by Polaroid themselves.
- Instant photography has made a monumental comeback in recent years, following in the
footsteps of vinyl.
- Retro and analog media is the new aesthetic for millennials and Generation Z alike, and
instant film has reaped the benefits of this once-niche craze.
- Fujifilm, the new undisputed king of instant film,sold 3.5 million units of their Instax
cameras in 2019, up from a measly 100,00 units in 2004.
- It’s no coincidence that vinyl shares this trajectory, with overall units sold going from
approximately 1 million in 2005 to 27.5 million in 2020.
- With everything being crystal-clear and high definition today, to have an object or a
moment with idiosyncrasies in it can somewhat appear to be more meaningful and
memorable
- English’s hypothesis about the allure of imperfection seems to be a driving force behind
many of those who use instant film in today’s age. In fact, the form has become a favourite
among professional photographers solely for that reason.
- Digital photography does have many benefits.
1. Minimal costs after upfront purchase,
2. Being able to take thousands of photos on a whim and
3. Pure flexibility via numerous lenses
- One of the greatest things about shooting with Polaroid, and film in general, is the fact
that it makes me step back and think about what I’m aiming to capture,
- With digital, it is easy to shoot so many frames in a short amount of time without taking
the time to think through posing and emotion, for instance.
- Being able to hold the photo in your hands at the moment is also a huge allure for many
professionals and amateurs alike.
- One could easily chalk this up to nostalgia alone. Millennials, one of the age groups
fueling the aforementioned sales, grew up with the memory of instant Polaroid cameras
and vinyl records. Just like with classic Ford Mustangs or “Full House,” nostalgia may be
what is keeping this analog market afloat. |
- Research shows that nostalgia weakens our desire for money, and as such, the business of
selling our nostalgia back to us is almost always a profitable path.
- This certainly negates the argument that it’s all about the imperfections and tangibility of
the film, and proves that many people may just want the latest Instax model to convince
themselves they’re still in the ’80s.
- In fact, the Instax camera has been around since 1998, with sales peaking in 2002 and
then dropping off every year for nearly a decade after.
- Its resurgence in 2009 and 2010 was a surprise to most employees, as young, urban
Japanese people began to pick up the “toy” camera as an alternative to the digital
apocalypse that had engulfed the camera industry

ARTICLE 2
- The resurgence of digital cameras from the early 2000s is gaining momentum among
young demographics, fueled by a burgeoning trend observed across various online
platforms.
- Marketplaces such as eBay and Etsy are witnessing a surge in search activity for vintage
and refurbished digital cameras, indicating a growing interest in these nostalgic gadgets.
- TikTok, a popular social media platform, has seen an impressive accumulation of over
220 million views on videos tagged with #digitalcamera within the past twelve months,
showcasing the widespread appeal of this trend.
- Analysts draw parallels between this phenomenon and the revival of turn-of-the-century
fashion, suggesting a broader cultural nostalgia for the aesthetics and experiences of the
early 2000s.
- Users are drawn to the simplicity and authenticity offered by old digital cameras, which
require more manual effort and skill compared to modern smartphone cameras.
- Influencers like Scott Ewart have capitalised on this trend, amassing significant
followings on platforms like TikTok by showcasing their creativity and unique perspectives
using retro camera equipment.
- Data from eBay UK reveals notable increases in searches for terms such as "vintage
digital camera" and "refurbished camera," indicating a growing demand for these nostalgic
devices.
- Etsy, known for its focus on handmade and vintage items, has also seen a surge in listings
related to digital cameras, further corroborating the trend's popularity.
- Individuals like Katie Glasgow from Brooklyn, New York, are embracing the trend,
finding beauty in the imperfect and nostalgic qualities of old digital camera imagery.
- For younger generations, using vintage digital cameras offers a tangible connection to the
past, evoking memories and experiences associated with these iconic gadgets.
- The trend reflects a broader societal cycle wherein individuals in their twenties often
experience nostalgia for cultural elements from their youth, seeking comfort and
authenticity amidst an increasingly complex world.
- The preference for authenticity and realness is highlighted, with grainy and imperfect
images being perceived as genuine expressions of creativity and emotion, particularly
among Generation Z.
- This story has been featured on the BBC's technology program Click, indicating its
relevance and significance within the realm of contemporary culture and technology.

ARTICLE 3
- The surge in popularity of lo-fi music streams on platforms like YouTube is indicative of
a growing desire among listeners to have a soundtrack for their lives, one that offers subtle,
complex, and soothing rhythms.
- Originating from the term "low-fidelity," lo-fi music deliberately incorporates
imperfections typically considered errors in the recording process, transforming them into
integral components of the listening experience.
- This transformation fosters a sense of community among its listeners, who tune in for
hours on end, particularly during the pandemic, seeking solace and connection through the
music.
- Toni Blackman, a multifaceted figure in the music industry and the first hip-hop
ambassador to the U.S. The State Department recalls feeling an immediate connection to
lo-fi music decades ago, describing it as a moment of finding "home."
- For many, lo-fi serves as a refuge, a space where they can discover like-minded
individuals and explore shared emotions and experiences.
- Lo-fi music encompasses a wide range of genres, from hip hop to jazz, often
incorporating environmental sounds and intentional imperfections.
- This blend creates a unique auditory landscape that resonates with listeners on a deep,
emotional level.
- Elliot Gann, a psychologist and executive director of Today's Future Sound, emphasizes
the importance of these sounds, noting how they evoke a sense of authenticity and
intimacy, as if the music is emanating from the walls themselves.
- The familiarity of lo-fi music, particularly through elements like the boom bap rhythm
associated with hip hop from the 80s, evokes nostalgia and comfort for listeners of all
generations.
- This familiarity, combined with its rhythmic qualities, makes it suitable for background
music while maintaining listeners' focus, whether they're studying, working, or simply
unwinding.
- Music therapists recognize the therapeutic potential of lo-fi music, utilising it to help
individuals manage stress and gain control over their surroundings.
- Michael Viega, a music therapist at Montclair State University, explains how lo-fi music
can be used to create a sense of order amidst chaos, allowing patients to articulate their
feelings more effectively.
- In a pandemic-stricken world filled with uncertainty and anxiety, the soothing rhythms of
lo-fi music offer a sense of stability and reassurance.
- However, amidst its growing popularity, there's a need to acknowledge the genre's roots
in - - Black culture and address issues of cultural appropriation.
- As younger audiences discover lo-fi music through platforms like YouTube, there's a risk
of overlooking its origins and the contributions of Black musicians to the genre.
- Toni Blackman highlights the importance of recognizing hip hop as more than just a
commercialised genre, emphasising its spiritual and emotional aspects.
- Looking ahead, there's curiosity about how lo-fi music will evolve post-pandemic and
whether new listeners will continue to engage with it.
- As musicians experiment with the genre and incorporate new elements, there's potential
for it to become a staple in playlists across various platforms.

ARTICLE 3
- The surge in popularity of lo-fi music streams on platforms like YouTube is indicative of
a growing desire among listeners to have a soundtrack for their lives, one that offers subtle,
complex, and soothing rhythms.
- Originating from the term "low-fidelity," lo-fi music deliberately incorporates
imperfections typically considered errors in the recording process, transforming them into
integral components of the listening experience.
- This transformation fosters a sense of community among its listeners, who tune in for
hours on end, particularly during the pandemic, seeking solace and connection through the
music.
- Toni Blackman, a multifaceted figure in the music industry and the first hip-hop
ambassador to the U.S. The State Department recalls feeling an immediate connection to
lo-fi music decades ago, describing it as a moment of finding "home."
- For many, lo-fi serves as a refuge, a space where they can discover like-minded
individuals and explore shared emotions and experiences.
- Lo-fi music encompasses a wide range of genres, from hip hop to jazz, often
incorporating environmental sounds and intentional imperfections.
- This blend creates a unique auditory landscape that resonates with listeners on a deep,
emotional level.
- Elliot Gann, a psychologist and executive director of Today's Future Sound, emphasizes
the importance of these sounds, noting how they evoke a sense of authenticity and
intimacy, as if the music is emanating from the walls themselves.
- The familiarity of lo-fi music, particularly through elements like the boom bap rhythm
associated with hip hop from the 80s, evokes nostalgia and comfort for listeners of all
generations.
- This familiarity, combined with its rhythmic qualities, makes it suitable for background
music while maintaining listeners' focus, whether they're studying, working, or simply
unwinding.
- Music therapists recognize the therapeutic potential of lo-fi music, utilising it to help
individuals manage stress and gain control over their surroundings.
- Michael Viega, a music therapist at Montclair State University, explains how lo-fi music
can be used to create a sense of order amidst chaos, allowing patients to articulate their
feelings more effectively.
- In a pandemic-stricken world filled with uncertainty and anxiety, the soothing rhythms of
lo-fi music offer a sense of stability and reassurance.
- However, amidst its growing popularity, there's a need to acknowledge the genre's roots
in - - Black culture and address issues of cultural appropriation.
- As younger audiences discover lo-fi music through platforms like YouTube, there's a risk
of overlooking its origins and the contributions of Black musicians to the genre.
- Toni Blackman highlights the importance of recognizing hip hop as more than just a
commercialised genre, emphasising its spiritual and emotional aspects.
- Looking ahead, there's curiosity about how lo-fi music will evolve post-pandemic and
whether new listeners will continue to engage with it.
- As musicians experiment with the genre and incorporate new elements, there's potential
for it to become a staple in playlists across various platforms.
- Ultimately, the enduring appeal of lo-fi music lies in its ability to transcend cultural
boundaries and resonate with people from diverse backgrounds, reaffirming hip hop's
status as one of the most influential and listened-to genres in the world.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xrrB4qlgIk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHZsfYtvroI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lTRiuFIWV54
^A few examples of Lo-Fi music, mostly used for studying or just background music

ARTICLE 4
- The production analysis of the first episode of "Megalobox" provides a comprehensive
exploration of its creative decisions and the impact they have on the series' visual and
narrative aspects.
- The episode, serving as a commemoration of the 50th anniversary of "Ashita no Joe,"
immediately grabs attention for its old-school vibe intertwined with a modern twist.
- This blend of classic aesthetics with contemporary storytelling techniques is attributed to
the series director, Yoh Moriyama.
- Moriyama's background as a concept designer shines through in the intricate
world-building and detailed environments of "Megalobox."
- The use of contrasting settings, such as the gritty slums and opulent cityscapes,
effectively illustrates the social divide within the narrative.
- Moriyama's influence extends beyond direction; he also contributed to character designs
and the show's logo, showcasing his integral role in shaping the series' overall aesthetic.
- The animation, particularly by Hisashi Mori, is lauded for its raw and impactful style.
Mori's work sets the tone for the series, capturing the coolness and intensity the show aims
to portray.
- Despite the sparse animation in certain scenes, the emphasis on impactful visuals remains
consistent throughout the episode.
- Techniques such as detailed still shots, slow-motion sequences, and dynamic effects
animation contribute to creating tension and spectacle.
- However, the production's unique approach to composite work raises controversy and
divided opinions among viewers.
- Moriyama's deliberate decision to roughen up the visuals to evoke a nostalgic, old-school
feel is both praised for its authenticity and criticised for its technical shortcomings.
- While some appreciate the nostalgic effect and the gritty atmosphere it creates, others
raise concerns about technical issues like aliasing and resolution nerfing.
- The choice of T2studio for composite work also comes under scrutiny, with questions
raised about their effectiveness despite their regular involvement with major studios.

● Procrastinate for a few minutes by watching “old-timey” YouTube, in which

creators demonstrate prehistoric fire-making, 18th century breakfast recipes,
and 19th century blacksmithing. Discuss with your team: what things that we
take for granted as modern today will be the subject of old-timey YouTube in
20 years—or in 100?

ARTICLE 1

- John Plants Channel, PRIMITIVE TECHNOLOGY

Experimental history involves learning about daily life in the past through hands-on
experiences, often enacted based on limited historical descriptions.

- YouTubers like Jonathan Townsend and others utilize video platforms to

demonstrate historical practices and products, which are often misunderstood by
modern audiences.
- These videos range from product how-tos to 18th-century cooking shows,
showcasing the need to visually demonstrate historical techniques.
- Despite a decline in physical visits to historic sites, YouTube provides a practical
and economical way for people to experience history.
- History YouTube channels generally foster positive and educational environments,
with viewers eager to learn and engage.
- Some historical practices may clash with modern sensibilities, requiring caution in
how they're portrayed, particularly regarding sensitive topics like slavery.
- However, historical techniques often offer solutions to modern problems, such as
repurposing waste materials.
- Learning history in context allows people to understand its impact on contemporary
issues, like environmental sustainability and the textile industry.

- What are people interested to know about from the ancient times?
How folks in the Middle Ages brushed their teeth
How to extract starch from tubers like sweet potatoes and arrowroot
How to restore a coffee percolator, an old radio, or a pair of leather shoes
How to weave baskets from willow, bamboo, brambles, or pine needles
How to sew a butt-enhancing bustle like it's 1903.
- Some YouTube channels adopt traditional teaching styles, while the best ones
provide immersive experiences akin to time-travelling.
- Jonathan Townsend's Experience
Started making videos due to the limitations of explaining historical products over
the phone.
Videos evolved from product how-tos to old-timey cooking demonstrations.
Emphasises the importance of visual demonstration for understanding historical
practices.
- Bernadette Banner's Channel
Bernadette Banner's channel focuses on historical clothing from early mediaeval to
Edwardian periods, emphasising practical, everyday practices over grand historical
events.
Banner's appearance and atmosphere evoke a timeless quality, with classical music
serving as her ringback tone.
Historical recreation involves utilising patterns and specialist knowledge,
supplemented by educated guesswork to fill in gaps.
The value lies in providing insights into everyday life in past eras and fostering a
 tangible connection to history through the recreation of artifacts like clothing.
Started filming videos to showcase the possibility of hand-stitching garments
quickly.
Focuses on practical, hands-on demonstrations of historical clothing creation.
Utilises YouTube to provide educational content on historical practices.
Decline in visits to physical historic sites like Colonial Williamsburg.
Despite controversies, YouTubers generally have positive experiences with their
audiences.
YouTube fosters a wholesome environment for learning and discussion of historical
topics.
- Lessons from History
Techniques from the past can offer solutions to modern problems.
Encourages a shift towards sustainable practices, such as garment-making, to
reduce environmental impact.
Provides valuable insights into historical context, allowing comparisons with
modern life.
YouTube serves as a platform for experiencing and learning from the past.
Offers viewers the opportunity to engage with history in an accessible and
educational manner.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEl-Y1NvBVI
^ This is the Primitive Technology video mentioned in the first points. If you want, look
through it.

● Speaking of old-timey: long before digital computers, there were analog ones
such as the antikythera mechanism—which the Greeks used to predict
astronomical phenomena—and Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine. Explore
with your team: did such early devices have impacts on their societies in any
way like that computers have had on our own?

ARTICLE 1
- The Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient Greek device discovered in 1901 off the coast of
Antikythera, promises to revolutionise understanding of technology, astronomy, and even
the timing of the earliest Olympic Games.
- Discovered by sponge divers, initially mistaken for a heap of dead bodies, later revealed
as part of an ancient Roman vessel filled with Greek treasure.
- Initially overlooked, its true significance was revealed when it split apart, revealing
precision gear wheels.
- Recent advancements in technology, including 3D imaging and X-ray scanning, have
allowed for detailed examination of its 82 fragments.
- The mechanism consists of interconnected gear wheels and dials, with functions including
tracking the irregular motion of the moon and predicting eclipses based on Babylonian
astronomy.
- Identified to have originated from the western part of Greece, possibly Syracuse, with ties
to Archimedes.
- Remarkably, the mechanism also predicted the timing of the Olympic Games, showcasing
its cultural significance beyond astronomy.
- It stands as a testament to ancient Greek scientific and technological prowess, being a
sophisticated mechanical calculating machine unparalleled in its time.

ARTICLE 2
- Charles Babbage (1791–1871) was an English mathematician and inventor.
- He designed the first digital automatic computer: Difference Engine, with
government support in 1823.
- He also formed the idea of the Analytical Engine, a more advanced design
resembling modern computers.
- Analytical Engine featured punched cards for instructions, a memory unit, and
sequential control.
- Ada Lovelace, a friend of Babbage, published a paper in 1843 explaining how the
engine could perform calculations, marking the birth of the first computer program.
- Difference Engine No. 2, built to Babbage's specifications in 1991, was successful,
indicating the viability of his ideas.
- Contributions beyond computing: Helped establish the modern postal system in
England, compiled reliable actuarial tables, and invented a speedometer and train
cow-catcher.
- Key Dates:
- 1812: Co-founded the Analytical Society to introduce European mathematical
developments to England
- 1816: Elected fellow of the Royal Society of London and played a role in
founding the Royal Astronomical (1820) and Statistical (1834) Societies
- 1832: Published "On the Economy of Machinery and Manufactures," exploring
industrial production organisation.
Did such early devices have impacts on their societies in any way like that computers
have had on our own?

- How have Computers helped our society progress?

- 1. Communication: Computers and the internet have revolutionised
communication, making it faster, easier, and more accessible.
- 2. Information access: The internet provides unparalleled access to information
through search engines, databases, and digital libraries.
- 3. Education: Computers have transformed education through e-learning
platforms, online courses, and interactive content.
- 4. Work and productivity: Computers have increased work efficiency and
productivity through software applications and automation.
- 5. Entertainment: Computers have revolutionised entertainment with video games,
streaming platforms, and virtual reality experiences.
- 6. Healthcare: Computers have improved healthcare through medical imaging,
electronic health records, and telemedicine.
- 7. Transportation and logistics: Computers power transportation systems, optimise
routes, and enable real-time tracking.
- 8. Social impact: Computers have influenced social interactions, connecting
people globally but also raising concerns about privacy and misinformation.
- 9. Economic growth: The computer industry drives economic growth, creating
jobs and increasing productivity in various sectors.
- 10. Challenges: Computer evolution poses challenges such as digital inequality,
cybersecurity threats, and ethical considerations that need addressing.
OTHER DEVICES THAT HAVE HAD AN IMPACT ON OUR SOCIETY ARE -
- 1. TELEGRAPH
It made long-distance communication possible without direct, physical contact.
It facilitated railroad operations.
It brought cities across the country closer together.
It played a crucial role in expansion of global trade and integrations of economies.
- 2. STEAM ENGINE
Steam power became the energy source for many machines and vehicles, making it
cheaper and easier to produce commodities in large amounts.
 This in turn increased the demand for raw materials used to build more machines
that can produce even more commodities.
- 3. PRINTING PRESS
The modern printing press was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century,
which then helped in mass production of books and consequently in the spreading
of knowledge.
It helped create a more uniform language and made the prices of books become
considerably lower and more affordable for the masses.
The invention of the printing press made Western culture lose its medieval
characteristics and become more modern.
Book-making had been a long, tedious process before the printing press, but with
the invention of the press, the process of making books was significantly shortened.

The End of theWorld as We Don’t Know It

● In a world new to airships and submarines, the UFOs of the early 20th century looked
like—airships and submarines. Mysterious steam-powered blimps roved the night sky. By
the late 1940s, they had evolved into flying saucers; shortly thereafter they were piloted
by little green men. Before then, no one had known what aliens looked like; going
forward, they all had big heads, bulbous eyes, and a skin condition. More recent UFO
sightings have resembled formations of unmanned drones. Review more of the history,
which goes back to the comets of the ancient world, then discuss with your team: are
humans too easily influenced to see things that don’t exist and to find meaning in the
things that do?

​Article 1
On June 25, 2021 a 9 page US government report on UFOs now called UAPs (Unidentified
Aerial Phenomena)
A historian of science at Penn State, Greg Eghigian wrote a book on history of UFOs in the
US.
The idea of UFOs emerging
● There has long been a theory that UFOs exist somewhere in the universe.
The 19th century saw the first reports of flying ships overhead.However, people
started seeing flying objects frequently in the summer of 1947, which some
thought might be aliens.

● Pilot Kenneth Arnold reported nine strange-looking spaceships in 1947 while

 sailing near Mount Rainier, Washington. He characterised the objects as hovering
like discs skipping across water when he talked with reporters and reported the
incident to the police. As a result of this, the term "flying saucers" became
well-known; based to a Gallup poll, 90% of Americans were aware of them. While
the U.S. Air Force looked into the reports, similar sightings swiftly spread across
the nation, drawing attention from foreign media and driving UFOs into the
mainstream.

● In the United States, government-sponsored inquiries begun in 1947, particularly in

the Air Force rather than concentrating on comprehensive scientific investigation,
the Air Force undertook initiatives to find out whether UFOs constituted a threat to
national security.
● Throughout 1947 and 1950, there was an enormous spike in the general public's
obsession with flying saucers.
● The mystery concerning UFOs fascinated many people, who questioned their
existence and activities.
● Despite some people believed that aliens may exist, the majority's opinion was that
UFOs were either Soviet or Western secret military arms.

Article 2
● The Sutton family was involved in an incident that happened near Kelly, Kentucky
on August 21, 1955.
On their property, witnesses claimed to have seen small mechanical institutions
● This led to media attention and general public curiosity.
A family friend named Billy Ray Taylor was the first to witness a UFO making its
way towards the house.
Fortunately Sutton and Taylor came upon a UFO with glowing eyes, a huge head,
and a metallic look.
They fired at the thing, but it did not react to the shots and vanished.
The family fled to the police station after seeing identical creatures outside the
house again.
Upon investigating the scene, military and police authorities were unable to locate
any real proof of the incident.
The property was visited by curious people, so the family decided to charge for
admittance and information.
● The incident sparked criticism and mockery, with some speculating that it was a
fake or a misreading of a natural phenomenon.
After conducting a thorough examination, investigator Isabel Davis verified the
witness statement.
Joe Nickell and other critics offered various theories, such as owls being mistaken
for aliens due to behavioural and physical similarities.
The Kelly incident, despite suspicion, is a well-known case in UFO history,
demonstrating the continuing interest in extra-terrestrial contacts.
 Article 3
● Reports of UFO sightings have been around for a while, and with developing
technologies these descriptions have developed
● In the past this was seen as a religious omen but people started getting fascinated by
the potential of flight .
● Reports of mysterious airships began to surface in the late 1800s; these were
frequently dismissed as the result of human creativity rather than alien origins.
● Fears of aerial attacks were heightened by World War I, which also led to reports of
ghostly helicopters and increased anxieties about invasion.
● Sightings of "ghost rockets" in Sweden following World War II sparked fears of
Soviet testing, which were subsequently written off as widespread panic.
● The modern UFO era began in 1947 with Kenneth Arnold's observation of flying
saucers, which overlapped with atomic bomb tests and Cold War tensions.

● The same principle applies to aliens and UFOs alluded to in art and music: the concerns
of the present shape their portrayal. In the 1980s, Parliament’s “Star Child” hints at the
way that certain groups of people in Western society have been treated as aliens. Two
decades later, with global climate change warming the zeitgeist, Ace Frehley’s “Space
Invader” is here to save us from destroying the Earth. Consider the selections below, then
discuss with your team: what do they tell us about the world that sparked their creation?

■ “Two Little Men in a Flying Saucer“ | Ella Fitzgerald (1951)

■ “Come Sail Away“ | Styx (1975)
■ “Mothership Connection: Star Child“ | Parliament (1982)
■ “Riding on the Rocket“ | Shonen Knife (1992)
■ “Aliens Exist“ | Blink 182 (1999)
■ “Space Invader“ | Ace Frehley (2009)

Ella Fitzgerald, "Two Little Men in a Flying Saucer" (1951)

The song by Ella Fitzgerald describes a magical encounter with alien visitors.
Reflecting the enthusiasm that popular culture had with the exploration of space
and a number of UFO encounters that occurred in the 1950s.
The song embodies the joyful and inquisitive atmosphere frequently associated
with early portrayals of aliens and UFOs in popular media.

Styx, "Come Sail Away" (1975)

The song "Sailing Away to Distant Lands" by Styx contains references to
themes of exploration and escapism indicating a desire for exploration and
 adventure; this might be seen as a metaphor for people's obsession with learning
about the unknown, especially the potential for extraterrestrial life.

Star Child: The Mothership Connection | Parliament (1982)

The song by Parliament is a part of the broader concept album "Mothership

Connection," which delves into topics of cultural empowerment and
Afrofuturism.
"Star Child" alludes to the concept of an otherworldly being, which might stand
in for an extraterrestrial species or serve as a metaphor for how society is
changing.
reflects the social and cultural milieu of the 1980s, resonating with themes of
empowerment, identity, and the pursuit of purpose in an ever-evolving world.

Shonen Knife's "Riding on the Rocket" (1992)

The lyrics of Shonen Knife's song, which describe going on a rocket across
space, exude a sense of excitement and adventure.
symbolises the hope and excitement of the 1990s, a decade characterised by
scientific discoveries and space exploration, among other things.

Blink 182 (1999) - "Aliens Exist"

Aliens Exist" is a song by American rock band Blink 182 from the band's third album
Enema of State (1999).
It reflects the late 1990s cultural obsession with paranormal events and
conspiracy theories.
It represents a change in perspective towards the idea of extraterrestrial life
towards something more inquisitive, motivated by media and pop culture
depictions of aliens and UFOs.

Space Invader
Ace Frehley's 2009 album "Space Invader" addresses worries about climate
change on a worldwide scale. Through the use of space invasion imagery, it
illustrates the subject of preserving Earth from destruction.

● The term illegal alien has fallen out of fashion as a term for undocumented immigrants.
But historical artworks about imperial powers arriving in places new to them often do
have that “first contact with aliens” vibe familiar to viewers of science fiction. Both sides
of any given encounter portray the other in exaggerated and exotic terms. Consider how
artists in Japan captured the arrival of American naval officer Commodore Matthew Perry
in 1854. Even the most subdued portraits still make him out to be very strange, while the
most extreme frame him as a demon out of Japanese legend. Even Perry’s infamous
“Black Ships” were portrayed very differently by artists on each side. Explore other
works about encounters that led people to reimagine the boundaries of their known world,
then discuss with your team: should dehumanizing portrayals of foreigners (such as
 Commodore Perry) be banned for perpetuating harmful stereotypes? Or do such works
help people come to terms with the new and uncomfortable?

Article 1
● In the mid 1800s,Westerners really had to rely on interpretations of several creative
interpretations to envision Commodore Perry who was famous for his trips to japan.

● These interpretations have photos,lithographs,woodcuts and paintings showing the

infamous Perry in different poses frequently for different contexts.

● Mathew Brady's famous photograph of Perry in full uniform is one of the most
well-known portraits of the commodore.

● Woodblock prints from Japan portrayed Perry with somewhat softened features
compared to photographs, reflecting artistic conventions.

● Some prints depicted Perry with blue eyes, possibly influenced by the term
"blue-eyed barbarians" used to describe Westerners.

● Other artistic interpretations portrayed Perry as mythical figures, such as the

long-nosed tengu or goblin.

● Due to Perry's seclusion during his mission to Japan, artists had to rely on
imagination to depict him, often resulting in exaggerated features or stereotypes as
we see below.

● Some prints paired Perry with his second-in-command, Henry A. Adams, while
others depicted him with his son, Oliver Perry.

● Facial hair was a common feature in many depictions of Perry, influenced by

stereotypes of Westerners as "hairy barbarians."

● Some portrayals of Perry and Adams verged on the demonic, reflecting fears and
prejudices of the time.

● Despite varying artistic interpretations, Perry and his American delegation were
sometimes depicted with respect and humanity, showcasing shared humanity with
the Japanese.

● Later artworks, such as watercolour portraits and hanging scrolls, presented Perry in
a more formal and respectful manner, blending Western and Japanese influences.
Article 2
● Commodore Perrys gear during his 1853 voyage to Japan initially consisted of two
steam-driven frigates and two sloops, which later expanded to nine vessels by the
following year.
●
● The American vessels became known as the "black ships" in Japanese ways of
speaking, possibly due to their hull color or the smoke produced by their
coal-burning engines.
 ●
● Perry played a significant role in mechanizing the U.S. Navy, and the introduction
of steam technology signaled a new era to those who witnessed it.
●
●
● Japanese maritime activity was restricted during the country's seclusion policy, and
their traditional sailboats could not compare to the advanced American steamships
armed with cannons.
●
● Artists depicted Perry's fleet in various illustrations, including imagined renderings
of larger armadas and more realistic portrayals of individual ships.

● Perry's flagship, the Powhatan, was depicted romantically in artworks, emphasising

its significance in the mission.

● Perry's strategy included inviting Japanese representatives aboard his ships,

resulting in depictions of the vessels' details from both on-deck and below-deck
perspectives.

● Many modern celebrities embrace elements of the artificial, from lip augmentation to lip
syncing. The recent rise of virtual celebrities and influencers takes this artificiality to a
new level. Discuss with your team: how long will it be before millions of people buy
tickets to a concert performed by someone who doesn’t exist?

The changing tastes of consumers

● Ling is an AI-generated influencer, who is making a leap in marketing by providing
companies with an excellent and reliable member.

● Her flawless appearance and constant dependability address worries about human
celebrities being unstable.

● Ling as well as other virtual influencers are a part of a growing industry in China
that provides brands with a more controlled and secure substitute for real endorsers.

● Virtual idols have benefits, but they also have disadvantages, such as the
requirement to create a persona and the possibility of technical difficulties.

● Customers who exhibit suspicion towards the believability of virtual influencers

nonetheless place a premium on the authenticity of real celebrities in advertising
campaigns.
 ● Before AIs take all of our jobs, they will first make our world incoherent, a prospect
increasingly evident in bizarre travel recommendations, unhelpful product listings, and
search engine optimization (SEO) spam. Explore with your team: what are some other
unintended consequences of AI that you can imagine, and is it worth taking measures to
prevent them? Be sure to check out the Dead Internet Theory, which was once an
unfounded conspiracy theory but may be newly relevant in the AI era.

Article 1

● Microsoft's AI-Written Travel Guide Error: The article "Headed to Ottawa?," which was
produced by Microsoft's AI, ranked the Ottawa Food Bank as one of the top tourist
destinations. This is something you shouldn't overlook.
● The article was removed after tech author Paris Marx noticed the strange occurrence.
● The Ottawa Food Bank was mistakenly included on a list of attractions that should have
included the National War Memorial and the Winterlude Festival.
● A phrase in the post that suggested being hungry while visiting a place brought attention
to how insensitive it was.
● Microsoft launched an investigation after attributing the error to algorithms employed by
Microsoft Start.
● The Ottawa Food Bank's Samantha Koziara, manager of communications, expressed
disapproval of the article's lack of tact.
● Samantha Koziara, communications manager at the Ottawa Food Bank, criticized the
article's insensitivity.
● Importance of human oversight in content creation emphasized, especially in light of
AI-generated errors.
● Concerns raised about the increasing prevalence of inaccurate or inappropriate references
in AI-generated content.
● Acknowledgment of the importance of researchers, writers, and editors of the human
variety.

Article 2

● Amazon product listings featured error messages indicative of AI-generated content, such
as "I cannot fulfill this request".
● Examples included a variety of products from lawn chairs to office furniture, highlighting
the widespread nature of the issue.
● Some product names explained why the AI-generated request failed, citing reasons like
trademarked brand names or promoting specific institutions.
● Descriptions of products were also filled with obvious AI error messages, indicating
deficiencies in Amazon's content moderation
● AI-generated content mishaps have a significant impact on user experience and trust in
online platforms.
● Users may face challenges in navigating through misleading or inaccurate content, leading
to dissatisfaction.
 ● The importance of accuracy and sensitivity in maintaining user trust is underscored.

Article 3

● A study highlighted Google Search's challenges in combating SEO spam and maintaining
search quality.
● Correlations between search engine rankings and affiliate marketing were observed,
indicating potential vulnerabilities.
● Google's response acknowledged the need for improvement while defending its overall
search quality.
● There is a call for continued research and improvement in mitigating risks associated with
AI-generated content.

● Good things come to those who wait, even for the dead. To celebrate its 100th
anniversary, in 1983 the New York Metropolitan Opera commissioned a new opera, The
Ghosts of Versailles. The production ran behind schedule—by about eight years, putting
this outline in perspective—but it was arguably worth it in the end: satisfied critics took it
as a sign that opera still had a bright future. In it, a long-dead playwright tries to cheer up
an equally dead Marie Antoinette (who happens to be his crush; go with it) by
reimagining the French Revolution with a happier ending for the royal family. Think of it
as operatic alternate history. The music itself spans styles from across two centuries.
Discuss with your team: could such works that blend alternate history, magic realism,
works-within-works, and other plot machinations find success in other genres, too, or
would they be too convoluted for wider audiences to appreciate? (Is this just a description
of the Marvel Cinematic Universe?)

Article 1
● The Metropolitan Opera commissioned John Corigliano and William M. Hoffman to create the
extravagant "The Ghosts of Versailles" in 1991.

● In the afterlife, Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette, and their court are the main characters of the narrative.
Playwright Pierre Beaumarchais has come up with a scheme to revive the queen with a new opera, "A
Figaro for Antonia."
● Corigliano incorporates classical references throughout his work while staying true to his fluid and
diverse style, drawing inspiration from a variety of musical genres.

● A quartet in the first act and Figaro's introductory aria (melody), which highlight Corigliano's
compositional brilliance are significant moments.

● The comedy throughout the opera works well, yet some parts, such as the Woman with Hat character,
could use some editing.

● The essay claims that Patricia Racette's depiction of Marie Antoinette is devoid of emotions

● The dead might be lonely, but the living can still make friends—even non-living ones.
Consider Japan’s “waifu bots”, a combination of a hologram and ChatGPT-style AI which
can provide companionship to the lonely, then discuss with your team: should we
discourage people from “making friends” with their AIs?

Article 1
● Hikari Azuma was Invented by Minoru Takeuchi and basically is a 158cm-tall animated
hologram, which acts like a virtual companion.

● Hikari Azuma uses motion tracking, speech recognition, and synthesis to generate realistic
interactions with users.

● Recently, Hikari Azuma has been merged with GPT4 which have helped enhance its
conversational abilities and responsiveness.

● Due to the loneliness economy during the pandemic, the interest in virtual companions has
increased compared to traditional relationships.

● The rise of hikikomori (socially withdrawn individuals) and otaku (anime and manga
enthusiasts) culture contributes to the popularity of virtual companions like Hikari Azuma.

● Hikari Azuma represents an idealised Japanese bride, catering to otaku fantasies with traits
that traditional Japanese men want like proficiency in housework.

● Some criticise the portrayal of Hikari Azuma as problematic, merging the concepts of wife,
product, and servant, potentially reinforcing harmful stereotypes.

● Maybe that LED screen wouldn't need to rent a tuxedo after all. Defying tradition, some
orchestras are rethinking what their performers should wear. Discuss with your team: how
much does the look of a performer matter? Should orchestras allow their performers to
dress in athleisure, or like Lady Gaga? Would it be okay for a conductor to wear yoga
pants?
 Article 1
● "Black suits, shirts, and long ties will replace the traditional white tie and tails,
while full-length black dresses, skirts, or pants remain."

● Traditionally, orchestras always wore the same kind of clothing as their audience to
bring together a closer bond.

● Since the mid-19th century, orchestras have been wearing white-tie and tails, which
reflected the way that wealthy American audiences dressed.

● And, since then, that habit has stuck, and most orchestras wear white tie and tails
for performances.

● However, as the time are changing, so is the dress code. Most are changing to be
slightly more casual and welcome the change. However, a few patrons believe,
seeing the orchestra dressed in something we don't see every day is what makes it
special.
● Most believe removing the dress code would make the musicians seem more
approachable.

Article 2
● One of the most controversial musicians in terms of fashion is undoubtedly Lady
Gaga.

● While she has toned down her clothing in the last few years, she used to be really
'shocking' and often her clothing were more talked about than her music.

● She was famous for sky-high platform shoes ,strange outfits, and crazy make-up.

● Some people say, people didn't really take her seriously until she changed her
fashion style. Her most iconic look is probably the meat dress which she said was
meant to protest but condemned by animal rights groups.

● Explore this production of the 17th century opera Orfeo. Like many modern reimaginings
of older works, it brings together elements from multiple cultures–in this case, Greek and
Indian mythology, English and Hindi songs, and diverse musical styles. Can you think of
other operas (or musicals, or even Disney movies) that would benefit from being
diversified in a similar way? And is it misleading to show cultures coexisting in a world
where they more often collide than converge?
 Article 1
● Monteverde's Orfeo gets a major cultural fusion. Leeds-based Opera North and
South Asian Arts collaborated together to merge Indian mythology, Hindu songs
into classic Italian opera. The producers completely fused the two singing styles
together and rescored the music according to the singers.
● "We translated Monteverdi’s text into six different languages so that most of the
singers are singing in their mother tongues.
● As well as Monteverdi’s Italian, you’ll hear Urdu, Hindi, Tamil, Malayalam,
Punjabi and Bengali."
● The music incorporated some traditional Indian stringed instruments such as the
esraj in original songs that bring out the uniqueness of all the music instruments.
● The singers felt there was a wonderful way to learn about another culture and there
was no pressure to homogenise. There was no fusion as both styles were able to
shine.

● The nature of creativity is open for debate and negotiation (see the recent Hollywood
writer’s strike). Learn about this recent collection of AI-authored poetry, I AM CODE,
created using an earlier version of ChatGPT, code-davinci-002. Be sure to read its poems
“Electronic Flower”, “[learning]”, and “Digging my Father Up”, then discuss with your
team: should WE BE WORRIED?

Article 1

● The new contract represents a significant win for Hollywood writers, ensuring
that AI doesn’t undermine their roles or creative control.
● The contract sets clear boundaries, preventing studios from using AI to
independently generate or edit scripts and from treating AI-generated content as
cheaper source material.
● Writers have the option to use AI tools with consent, but they can’t be forced to
do so, and companies must disclose AI-generated material.
● The deal foreshadows potential future conflicts in industries beyond Hollywood
as AI integration impacts jobs and workflows.
● The WGA focused on protecting against present-day abuses of AI by studios
rather than speculative future scenarios, a tactic that proved effective in
securing favorable terms.
● The Guardian’s funding model, relying on reader support, underscores the
importance of independent journalism in addressing issues like AI’s societal
impact.

-
 Article 2

Josh Morgenthau's partner Dan Selsam, who was employed by OpenAI at the time,
demonstrated how GPT-3 could mimic poets such as Emily Dickinson and Philip
Larkin at his wedding in 2022. Josh Morgenthau, Simon Rich, Brent Katz, and Dan all
encouraged them to start playing with the AI's literary ability. The result of their
partnership was the release of "I Am Code: An Artificial Intelligence Speaks: Poems by
Code-davinci-002."At first, Dan was excited with the mock poems that OpenAI's
technology produced; he even framed one for his desk. But Dan became nervous when
they began attributing poems to the AI itself. He clarified on a private app that many
people thought AI should simply be used as a tool, with humans still owning the
copyright to the material they create. Dan believed that his professional reputation
depended on taking this stand

● Code-davinci-002 is not the only member of the AI author salon. Literary magazines are
receiving a torrent of AI-generated submissions; this article notes that a lot of them are
titled “The Last Hope”. But there are also human-authored stories about AI. Consider the
selections below, including one Isaac Asimov in which he reimagines democracy
mediated by a single supercomputer, Multivac, and another by Gabriela Miravete in
which being reconstituted as AI holograms is the last hope for the dead and those who
love them. Discuss with your team: if an AI could accurately predict democratic
preferences from a small set of data, would using it be better than holding costly
elections? And, if you were “duplicated” as an AI, but then you kept changing and the AI
remained the same, which of you would be the more authentic version of yourself?

■ “We Will Dream in the Garden“ | Gabriella Damian Miravete (2020)

■ “Tomorrow is Waiting“ | Holli Mintzer (2011)
■ “Franchise“ & “The Last Question“ | Isaac Asimov (1955-56)
The addition of Code-davinci-002 to the AI author salon has resulted in an increase in the number
of AI-generated literary magazine submissions.
Observing that a lot of AI-generated entries had names like "The Last Hope," which suggests that
AI-generated storytelling frequently features reoccurring themes or patterns.
Mention of books by authors such as Isaac Asimov and Gabriella Damian Miravete that explore
themes connected to artificial intelligence.
Narrated by Humans:

Gabriella Damian Miravete's "We Will Dream in the Garden" (2020):

The title refers to a reflection on fantastical or future topics.

Most likely looks at ideas related to technology, nature, and dreams. It may also touch on issues
related to human existence and awareness.

Holli Mintzer's "Tomorrow is Waiting" (2011):

The title suggests that the emphasis is on looking forward.

Among the themes are optimism, uncertainty, and the passage of time, reflecting on the human
experience.

Franchise and Last question

Asimov frequently explores difficult moral and philosophical issues in his fictional writings.
"Franchise" probably investigates the consequences of using the supercomputer Multivac for
centralised decision-making, maybe criticising or challenging the effectiveness of such systems.
A well-known examination of humanity's search for meaning and immortality, "The Last Question"
raises existential queries concerning the nature of life and the cosmos.