Convergence Culture Conclusion

In the conclusion of "Convergence Culture",  Jenkins focuses on the convergence and future of the relationship between media and society. Jenkins reviews attempts in the past to bridge the gap, between producer and consumer. One of which was a network named "Current" created by Al Gore. A network developed to allow younger generations the opportunity to produce and weigh in on television programs; programs designed to educate and offer feedback on important topics which may be overlooked by today's adolescence.

The most avid viewpoint Jenkins makes, is the responsibility to educate on the subject of "media literacy." Jenkins concludes that today's understanding of media takes place in the "affinity spaces" around popular culture. With this in mind, most regard media as a negative influence, or as a threat; a sole entity with manipulation as their only agenda. In order for society to better understand the empowerment which media can deliver, we as a people must begin by understanding the goals media education will impart to different cultures and generations. As Jenkins states, the objective is for the younger people to think of themselves as "cultural producers and participants" and not just a "consumer."

Hepler and the Gaming Community

With regards to Hepler's interview, the gaming community appears to be, what the article states, a mob. It's true that no one should be belittled in such a way for doing their job. Arguments can be made on both sides on the quality of Bioware's storyline. Some may enjoy, some may not. But this should not warrant the naysayers to attack a writer. We must remember that developing a game is a TEAM effort. If we as gamers have an opinion about a game's development, our issues should be directed at the entire company.

However, I also feel that this type of criticism should not get this much attention. Let's not forget that this industry is worth billions of dollars. And if you create a product used by millions, you should expect shots from the public at every angle.

LGBT issues

First, in answering the question if I can name any gay, lesbian, or transsexual characters in gaming, the answer is no. And that's probably due to the fact that almost all the games I participate in are centered around the "strong heterosexual man type."

Now, to be perfectly honest, the issues that surround LGBT's do not concern me, simply because I don't care what someone's sexual orientation is. I am not gay; I do not have children who are gay; none of my friends are gay; and I am not a politician who's up for reelection where this topic would affect my votes. The issues surrounding the subject that are in the media are of no consequence. Simply put, I really don't care. This may not be the politically correct response, or may be insensitive, but it's just the way I feel.

Gender portrayal in Gaming

Video games, in my opinion, are obviously created for men, by men. The male figure is usually portrayed as a strong, aggressive, and competent figure. Whereas women are developed with one thing in mind: attraction. Girl characters are usually depicted as sexual, and incapable; which are qualities many "alpha" males look for in a girl. Now I have personally never played any games where gender is an issue, because I play mostly sporting games, but it's no surprise that gender is a complicated problem in the gaming industry. And why shouldn't it be, it's a dilemma in almost every facet in American culture. Men are strong, tough, and independent, while women are weak, dependent, and reliant on their physical attributes. I don't believe this, but this mindset is instilled in many people around the world. And until a miracle happens, and everyone believes that we are all equal, we will continue to see games that objectify women.