The Classification of Marijuana as a Schedule I Substance: An Examination of Its Relevance in the Modern Era

Marijuana is a Schedule (I) substance under the Controlled Substances Act of the Drug Enforcement Administration. What does a schedule (1) substance mean under the Controlled Substances? Do you think that this makes any sense, as Marijuana is now legal in some parts of the United States of America?

Reimagining Selfhood, Subjectivity, and Participation: Insights from Post-Midterm Theorists

 

How do our post-midterm theorists and theories intersect with your understanding of selfhood, subjectivity, and participation (i.e., “participation” as in one’s contribution to political, economic, communal, familial, and/or digital life)?
Judith Butler, Edward Said, Michael Hardt, Antonio Negri, Gayatri Spivak, Randy Martin, Marc Bousquet, and our other post-midterm theorists approach the idea of selfhood, subjectivity, and participatory culture through Marxism, poststructuralism, postcolonial theory, feminism and gender theory, and labor studies. Reflect on these theories and theorists in light of your understanding of “who and why we are” in the context of material history and ongoing social change. You’ll develop your theory of selfhood, subjectivity, and participation by making important connections to our readings. You’re also encouraged to draw from literature, film, and art to make your case.

 

 

The Impact of Post-Midterm Theorists on Understanding Politics and Economics

THEORY AS DISCIPLINE AS PRAXIS
Q: How might our post-midterm theorists and theories contribute to a better understanding of one of the following fields:

a. education (e.g., pedagogy, curricula, and academic labor)
b. digital public sphere (e.g., information, instagram, and TikTok)
c. artificial intelligence (e.g., computers, cyborgs, and machine labor)
d. politics and economics (e.g., neoliberalism, proletarianization, and transnational capital)

Banning Smartphones in Classrooms: A Case for Limiting Distractions and Fostering Focus

 

The use of smartphones in classrooms is a contentious issue, with some arguing that they are valuable educational tools while others believe they are a distraction and hindrance to learning. Write an argumentative essay either supporting or refuting the idea that smartphones should be banned in classrooms. Consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of smartphone use for educational purposes, and provide examples from your own academic experiences to support your argument.

Embracing Minimalism: A Path to Sustainable Well-being

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards minimalism, with many advocating for a simpler, less materialistic lifestyle. Write an argumentative essay either supporting or refuting the benefits of minimalism in modern life. Consider factors such as consumerism, environmental impact, and overall well-being, drawing on personal anecdotes and examples to bolster your argument.

 

 

The Impact of Social Media on Society: A Net Negative Influence

 

Some people argue that social media has had a predominantly negative impact on society, leading to increased isolation and decreased real-life interactions. Others contend that social media has provided valuable opportunities for connection and communication. Write an argumentative essay either supporting or refuting the idea that social media has a net negative impact on society, drawing on personal experiences and observations to support your stance.