Your final project will be an in-depth study of one of the issues covered in the course (or a related issue). Creative proposals for alternatives to the research paper format are welcomed.
1. Select topic by Friday, March 8. Submit topic by email. Timely submission of topic, 5 points.
2. Annotated bibliography due by March 18. (10
points)
List sources you have found on your topic, with a brief summary of
content (about 5 lines for each item). Submit by email. The
number of sources you need will vary with your topic and the type of sources
you are using, but should include enough material for a careful evaluation
of your chosen issue. Your bibliography will be returned with suggestions.
3. First draft due by April 8. (25 points)
The draft should be 10-20 pages. Submit as an email attachment,
preferably in MS Word format. Your draft will be returned with comments.
4. Final version due April 22. (60 points)
Suggested topics:
1. Choose a controversial statute involving the use or regulation of new technology. Research the problems the law is intended to solve and cases decided under the law. Evaluate arguments of critics and propose a solution in light of your research.
2. Choose a specific public policy concern raised by new technology.
Research various points of view on the issue and provide your own analysis
in light of your research.
3. Research and evaluate broad theoretical approaches to social
regulation of technology.
4. Research in depth the question of what the future is likely
to bring in a specific area of technological advancement and how society
is likely to change as a result.
5. Research and evaluate the role of technology in helping
and/or hindering crime and warlike attacks.