Systems -- Where "we" exist

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Definitions of where "we" fit into the systematic model of sociological structure.

Steph: "I am a system" is problematic, in my mind because the systematic process is made by an infinite amount of "systems" that we each exist in. The identity is created with -- at least increased performance -- the intersect of a variety of systematic processes.



I am A System Response – Kris Brockelbank

Can I really be me, is there more to me then just a single entity? How does one really compartmentalize the universe? These questions all philosophical in nature, answer through a systems approach. There has to be some way of ordering society. Systems on a very basic level, organize and explain how things function. The actor-network theory attempts to explain how technology is a system. Fused between relationships of various actors and humans, a desired outcome through negotiation can be reached. The system only flourishes if that desired outcome is the end result.

Both the user and the technology mutually benefit one another. Like many structures, systems need to be maintained. The computer needs a tech-savvy guru who constantly updates the firmware, maintains the software and does viral checks. Likewise, the technology can only flourish and expand if these daily-routines are kept in balance. As technology progresses it creates newer benefits. Hence the idea that technology and humans both rely on one another. They need to be thought of in a reciprocal manner. Machines bring jobs, power and control. One can think of the new tele-commuting profession for people who can solely work at home. Individuals need the computer to perform their job duties but the computer technology helped create a niche market so they can get paid.

Systems also require someone who can understand the technology. We are living in a day of “experts”. Once can Call 1800-Dentist and receive recommendations on who their ideal dentist via a location. Technology has “gate keepers,” the guarders of the system. Certain policies and a complicated understanding of the infrastructure allow virtual conglomerates like Microsoft to hold poor defenseless users hostage. Every darn PC now comes with the Microsoft Operating System pre-loaded. What happened to the old days of open-source or other alternative operating systems such as (Linux), that users developed for free and continued to progress. Even open source products like Redhat, a distribution of Linux once open-source, sold out to sell their product for monetary gain. Giants keep the system at bay, so the same outcome continuously develops. The people who are not technically-balanced are left to fend for themselves becoming smothered by these experts.

Systems fortify themselves but can be compromised by a certain actor or intelligence. Your computer is virtually “hackable” as soon as you “log on” to the internet. Some people may not even know what a “firewall” is. Moreover, people forget how to configure their firewalls or secure their “TCP-IP” protocol. What do I mean by all this expert lingo? That is my point! Technology always has downfalls and the systems can be compromised in some way.

Systems can also be used for something they were not intended for. Hijacking planes and crashing them into the World Trade Centre addresses this concern. Computers that are compromised may be used to slow your internet connection down and disconnect others through flood attempts known as “Dosing”. We live in a world of systems, the good the bad and the ugly. We cannot escape them for they help define social spaces and help us map out our place in society.

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