Computers are now so prevalent in our society that their importance hardly needs mentioning. But we know from our experience with other technologies that adoption of a new technology often results in effects we didn't anticipate. This course highlights numerous questions that computerization raises as computer use expands into virtually every corner of everyday life. When does computerization really improve the productivity of organizations? What risks do computerized medical devices involve? Is computerization reducing personal privacy? What possibilities does telecommuting really offer people for working at home? Do electronic mail and computerized conferences promote the formation of new "communities,'' or do they undermine intimate interaction? How do wecontrol and manage electronic communication that is pornographic? Why is free speech and censorship issues so much more complex when we move to computer networks?

This course is designed to help you understand the range of impacts that computing has now and can have when it is used by business, public agencies and individuals. Since computerization raises many social issues (e.g. quality of work, unemployment, balance of social power, privacy), this course is organized as a survey. Through selected readings, discussion, lectures, videos, and written assignments, you will become acquainted with the major issues and social dimensions of different computer technologies. In working through cases and issues, critical reading of source materials is emphasized, as well as the development of analytical skills.