1. Why did early media research primarily focused on explaining and controlling the effects of media rather than on cataloging routine media uses and gratifications. Was this focus appropriate? What purpose can be served by looking at media uses and gratifications?
2. Are you a new communication technology optimist or a new technology pessimist? Do you think the rapid and sometimes amazing advances we are seeing in how we can interact with one another and our environments will produce a more humane culture or one that leaves us separated and isolated? Support your answer, using evidence from your current media use if you can.