Critical History of Computing and the Internet

(Formerly numbered Social Science 103.) Exploration of the rich and complex histories of computing and the internet, recontextualizing dominant narratives within a global context and intersectional frameworks. Through study of early knowledge machines like the abacus and Jacquard looms and historical milestones such as World War II, the Cold War, and the rise of Silicon Valley, analysis of how these technologies were shaped by political, cultural, and social forces. By connecting historical developments to contemporary issues such as surveillance, social media, and artificial intelligence, students gain tools to challenge techno-utopian narratives and better understand the profound societal impact of digital technologies.

P/NP or letter grading.