Current Event

For my current event presentation I chose an article from MSNBC.com entitled "Dogs can't talk, but now they can tweet".

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/39487253/ns/technology_and_science-tech_and_gadgets/

Essentially the article describes a new item developed by the company Mattel.  It is called "Puppy Tweet" and it is a tag you place on your dog's collar.  Once in place and activated, it uses a wireless USB connection in order to send funny tweets based on your dog's activity level.  If the tag (and your dog) remain still for an extended period of time it will tweet something about sleeping.  Similarly if the tag is very active it will tweet something about running around excessively.  Basically it is a fun way to keep tabs on your dog while away from home.

In our class discussion, I suggested to the class that perhaps this technology could be useful in other areas.  Perhaps as a baby monitor or another thing such as that.  The class also discussed the possibility of this technology taking over our society such as in Neil Postman's book that we are reading.  Overall the class seemed to agree that this is a cute novelty toy, however does not provide a huge technological advantage.  Many agreed that this will likely only sell to avid dog lovers and therefore will not become extremely popular.  Finally, one member of our class mentioned that he feels safe with this technology out there as long as people do not become reliable on it.

One other thing that we discussed in terms of Puppy Tweet was the fact that in the human world many of our relationships have been diluted due to the integration of technology in society.  Face to face contact has diminished and we discussed the possibility that Puppy Tweet can now add this dimension into the pet world as well.  It should be interesting to see how Puppy Tweet sells and how our society reacts to the idea of integrating technology into the animal world.