Week 11 Forum - Philosophy of Technology
Scenario 1
I woke up for another typical university day. I walked to the bus stop, waited there for the bus and hopped on. I had the usual day of lectures and crappy food from downstairs. On my way home I decided to stop off at the newsagency and buy a lottery ticket. You wouldn't believe what happened. . . . I WON $22 MILLION ! ! !
The next day I quit work, uni and went shopping. I bought a few houses and few cars. These weren't just any cars. Ferrari, Lamboghini, Porsche and BMW's. After I got sick of driving I went overseas for a few years. When I came back I met an amazing women and got married. Had heaps of kids and spoiled them. I had a great life on my beach-front property, grew old and died a happy man.
Scenario 2
I woke up for another typical university day. I walked to the bus stop and out of no where a car swerved infront of me and hit me straight on. I died that day.
[1] Stephen Whittington & David Harris, "Music Technology Forum: Semester 1 - Week 11 – Philosophy of Technology". Lecture presented at the Electronic Music Unit, University of Adelaide, South Australia, 29th May 2008
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What's my point? The world has so many problems, and of course there are steps you can take to try and make a difference. But at the end of the day everyone deserves to be happy and live their life the way they want to. There is no way an individual can make a notable difference in the world of problems that I consider important. These being war, poverty, sickness and human ignorance. Yes the environment is important too, but I place higher importance on people.
As individuals we never know what's coming. I think the world would be a better place if everyone just tried to be the best they can be and be useful members of society.
That is why I believe that I'm entitled to whatever I can accomplish. I work hard and I consider myself a good person. I don't think it's selfish to have high standards and expectations of what I want to achieve in life. I know there a millions of people less fortunate than me. But honestly what can I do about that? All I can do it be grateful for what I have, and I am. I know its terrible what is happening in other parts of the world and if there was a way I could help I would. I used to give money to World Vision until I went broke and couldn't afford it anymore. I probably donated around $400 overall. It made no difference.
You never know what's coming. All you can do is live life to the fullest and be happy with what you have.
