What are social controversies surrounding computer engineering?

[Bob G]

I need to give a persuasive speech in my speech class relating to my major. It needs to be on a social or political controversy and we must pick a side. I am having trouble coming up with a good topic relating to my major(computer engineering) I thought of maybe technology going to far but that might not be specific enough. If you have any suggestions or ideas please let me know. Thanks in advance!

[J B]

If you like a bit of comedy you could add a short bit about technology with feelings.
"imagine your computer with feelings, in the middle of an important essay etc. it decides that you aren't being nice to it/ it's doing too much work so shuts it self down and won't turn on again"
That might persuade people.
You could also steal movie plots involving rouge computers the one where a spy plane goes rouge and in the end blows itself up.

[Nick]

You could possibly take on the issue of recycling of old computers/technology. Technology is advancing so quickly, and computers/monitors/phones/etc. are replaced so often that the old ones are too abundant and contain too many exotic materials to place them in landfills, they would do too much damage to the soil and ground water. They should be recycled, but a widespread and environmentally responsible way to do it has not been developed.

Just an idea. Obviously you would have to do a little more research.

[Eric]

Social Controversies. One of the biggest SOCIAL issues I have noticed over the years, is people who got involved in computers when I did, were all geeks. now days, that is not true at all. Maybe you should write on this.

I have 20 years of professional experience working with computers and 30 years of personal experience. I have been a programmer, network engineer, Black hat, White hat, and now a computer hacker forensics investigator.

Back in the 70's when I first got involved with computers, the stereo type was nerds who knew computers, but had no social skills or sport abilities. pocket protectors, glasses, floods. etc. etc. On the most part, it was true. Over time however that changed.

In the 80's it was more long hair, jeans and T-shirts with holes in them, video games, Pizza, minimal sports activities (Think of "War Games").

In the 90's that is all completely different. Network engineering is a huge market with a lot os specialties. Network engineers such as myself have no problems interacting with other people, I personally am very active in sports (Karate, White water rafting, Paintball, SCUBA diving, Shooting, 4 wheeling, etc. etc.). The early nerds were often picked on, but now, if someone messes with us, we may very well kick some ass. It has become a very mainstream job, and heavily sought after.

Now, in the early 21st century it is changing even more. There is on the most part a world war taking place in Cyberspace, and those who work in my field are beginning to take on a Warrior personna. A soldier protecting our way of life and capable of acting on their own, in the best interest of us all. Although, most people do not yet have a clue about this level yet.