Poon+Ka+Lam


 * __Viruses__**
 * Similar to many misconceptions where certain facts are magnified while others are absent, viruses play a vital role in the digital galaxy. The roles masked behind the preconceived ideas, the virus stems from an alternative sub-culture that goes beyond the complexity of simply reckless abandon. The development of the virus, the sub-culture it embodies, and the underrepresentation of the benefits is the epitome of this essay. The negative capabilities of viruses are crystal clear but its history and cultural significance will provide an insight for skeptics on how the virus came to be.**

website: www.individual.utoronto.ca/kalam


 * CRITICAL ANALYSIS**

BY ARLENE LU

It is definitely true that society only discusses viruses in a negative perspective. The author does an outstanding job to illustrate the other viewpoint of such a one sided topic. The creation of viruses has a strong correlation with the history of programming (Gauntlett, 266), and likewise to the technological advancements of the web, viruses and computer hacking continues to develop. I would also like to add that to this present day, it has evolved in such a manner that it is considered as a form of social-terrorism. For everyday Internet users, it is detrimental to shy away and become afraid of viruses, as awareness will bring protection. I agree the idea that virus writers are not merely causing technological vandalism for their own amusement, but rather as a way to see the broader cultural implications on the over-dependence of technology (Gauntlett, 266). In relation to my topic of fan behavior, there is a social link between fans and hackers. The assumption that they are both socially inept is a prevalent stereotype, whereas, in actuality, they are both gaining more social acceptance as their roles in society continue to evolve and become a norm. Gauntlett, David. //Web.Studies (Arnold Publication)//. 2 ed. London: A Hodder Arnold Publication, 2004. Print.