Here is the prompt:
Some observers of American life have noted that rapid advances in modern technology (from about the middle of the nineteenth century) have done much to erase the enormous gap that historically separated the life-styles of the upper- middle- and working classes. Although wealthy people can afford luxury versions of many consumer commodities, the items of material consumption (with a few exceptions, such as private airplanes and yachts) are mostly of the same kind. To express it metaphorically, the rich may be sitting in the box seats, but we’re all watching the same play.
What technologies of the past 150 years might have led some historians to assert that material life-styles have become increasingly democratized? In what ways might these technologies have been seen to reduce the gap between the classes? Briefly state whether you yourself agree with the idea of modern technology as a democratizing force and explain your opinion. (Be brief here, and note that there is no correct or incorrect answer to this part of the question).
What do you guys think? Any ideas? Areas? Topics?
Some observers of American life have noted that rapid advances in modern technology (from about the middle of the nineteenth century) have done much to erase the enormous gap that historically separated the life-styles of the upper- middle- and working classes. Although wealthy people can afford luxury versions of many consumer commodities, the items of material consumption (with a few exceptions, such as private airplanes and yachts) are mostly of the same kind. To express it metaphorically, the rich may be sitting in the box seats, but we’re all watching the same play.
What technologies of the past 150 years might have led some historians to assert that material life-styles have become increasingly democratized? In what ways might these technologies have been seen to reduce the gap between the classes? Briefly state whether you yourself agree with the idea of modern technology as a democratizing force and explain your opinion. (Be brief here, and note that there is no correct or incorrect answer to this part of the question).
What do you guys think? Any ideas? Areas? Topics?
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