Intitial Impressions

Another year, another Investigations ship has sailed. I'll refrain from talking about the captain of this vessel, as well as my fellow crew members, until it becomes relevant.

I've chosen to investigate technology this year, as a way of appeasing the little mad scientist in me. I fear that my research will trend toward the more historical side of things, like many of my other projects. This may be in deference to my increased focus on my (history) major this semester, or it may only be a reflection of how my brain works. Regardless, with an umbrella topic with a historical date in it (20th Century...!), the temptation is almost too much.

To begin, I've checked out three books from the library. Each focuses on a specific aspect of technology, and serves as a jumping off point. I can't bring myself to look at everything that has to do with technology, so I'm going to have to cut down my field of vision, so to speak.

Now...where did I put that list...of titles and authors...and....damnit all......

Never mind that. I'll post that critical info in a later post...or not at all. If I figure out which direction I wish to take this runaway train of thought before my next post, then there should be no need to display which directions that it could have gone off the rails.

Currently, I'm reading a book entitled "Dominance By Design", an examination on the effect American technological developments have had on its current position within the world. I'm interested in this angle primarily due to my investment in realistic fiction. Many authors of near-future science fiction tales have Americans (or their fictional analogues) placed atop the technological hierarchy. It does seem to be true that American technology reigns supreme in the current world. However, I suspect that my current viewpoint results from my American history textbooks self-aggrandizing nature more than as a point of fact. Perhaps current advancements in technology can be attributed to American research, but as for the actual parts? Those come from the lowest bidder, these days.

That leads me to another interesting, crucial point. What precisely do I mean when I say "technology"? Am I talking about actual, physical pieces of tech? Or, as "Dominance By Design" alludes to, is that word a reflection upon an actual knowledge that exceeds a current standard? I will post my working definition when I have more than a swirl of thoughts.

Finally, I ought to mention that Capt. Steve Goldman has shown a particular interest in my topic, and has offered his assistance, as well as a short list of contacts to help with my project. I feel...special, yet undeserving at the same time. Until I have a better idea to work with, I'm not quite sure what I would do with any help offered.