For example Apple’s app store allows anyone to create an application that they can share with the world. But it is an illusion. Apples policies for applications actually limit what people are allowed to create for apple products, and the company has a right to do so. But these policies encroach on the “freedom” which is implied in being able to create and share personal projects and ideas. By creating impossible to crack coding and constantly changing this code, Apple restricts its users abilities freely exchange ideas. As seen in the Lessig video, Apple withholds all the rights to the applications in the app store. They offer you the ability to create an application then take all the benefits for its creation. That’s simply unfair. However, it is clearly stated in their policies that this is the case. It is the structure and branding of Apple that implies a sense of freedom and connectedness, though this “freedom” is really shallow.
In the “Fitting Our Tools to a Small World” article it is shown how connected people really are. With sites such as Facebook people are becoming even more connected. Being able to see others who like the same thing as you and being able to engage in pseudo conversations with others about such topics greatly increases the links between individuals. For example on my personal Facebook page it says I like Waffle House. I chose to put that there and it is a true statement. It also allows me to see others who think Waffle House is as great as I do. This fosters the building of an online community. If for some reason a protest needed to be raised in support of Waffle House, I am sure one of the first courses of action would be to go on the Waffle House Facebook page and publish a call for action from the fans of the good old WH. Facebook enables people the ability to share ideas, connect with likeminded individuals, and eventually co-operate with others to achieve a goal.
With the free exchange of ideas people are able to organize more effective and widespread demonstrations to help change negative social scenarios. I also see art and entertainment growing and diversifying at exponential rates because of the enhanced ability to publish works. This is not wishful thinking for the future, it is happening now.
Isn't Philosoraptor great? I use a mac but i have no love for Apple. This a link to a blog that illuminates some of apple shady business practices http://blogs.computerworld.com/16192/apple_replaces_microsoft_as_technologys_bad_boy (Link doesnt show up.... not sure why.... copy/paste)
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