Running head: IDENTITY IN TECHNOLOGY

Identity in Technology
Observing the Ways in Which Technology Affects Our Identities

Shannon Whorms
BE-422 Seminar on Technology and Society
International College of the Cayman Islands

David Marshall
December 15th 2016

IDENTITY IN TECHNOLOGY
Introduction
Identity is, in a lot of ways, very different today than it was in the time before technology.
However, the meaning is pretty much the same. Merriam-Webster defines Identity as; the
distinguishing character or personality of an individual. Whats different today is the way in
which we as individuals present our identities to the world, and the way in which we perceive
others identities. Much of this presentation and perception is done today through the usage of
technology, primarily social media. This paper will be an attempt to compile and contrast
observations made into these recent, modern changes to the state of personal identity. Even in the
Cayman Islands, where technology feels like more of a supporting feature than a main attraction
as it is in San Francisco, identity is undoubtedly affected by technology. The question is whether
our identities are compromised or devalued by this technological accompaniment, or whether our
individualism is enhanced, or not affected at all.
Technology and Society Topic Exploration
Knowing the effects technology has on our identities is important because the study of
society begins with observing the individual. The behaviors of society are built off of many
different individual personalities. The characteristics we have that are unique to us matter in the
societal sense when it comes to how others react to them (personal preferences, habits, etc.). The
characteristics that many of us share, separates us into groups within society that interact with
each other (groups such as different races, age groups, sports fans, etc.). The way we perceive
other peoples personalities, and the way we present our own to the world matter because our
identities can become altered through the method of presentation. This can have wider effects on
society as a whole. If, because of technology, we assume that we know more about the people we

IDENTITY IN TECHNOLOGY
interact with because we can click through their profiles and see their likes, dislikes and shared
thoughts we may become more trustworthy, less questioning of a persons personality. That
attitude would lead to a gullible disposition and a higher likelihood to distrust those around us if
what we perceive as true turns out to be false. Considering how you view it, this can be seen as
an already existing effect technology has had, as we see in entertainment news when perceived
falsities about celebrities and important people are presented as huge scandals because its so
easy to accept information as true when its given to us so easily. Complimentary to this,
however, technology is building a generation that is more questioning in a positive way, as
younger people tend to fact check more and more instead of accepting information as they
receive it. This has in some instances led to a bridge between generations, having tension become
present between the younger, more technologically sound generation and the older, less technical
generation. Its because of technology, and the way in which weve adapted to receiving
information through it, and judging others identities that this has happened. The older generation
tend to accept information given as fact, while the younger generation tend to leave things open
for investigation, and both tend to believe they have the smarter way of thinking.
Limitations
The limitations that I found during this seminar to had to do with my overconfidence in
myself, the ease of the coursework and the thought that the material would be fairly
comprehensible at first sight. I unfortunately found out too late that this was not that case and
this ultimately led to not only a misinterpretation of an assignment, but mismanaging my
deadlines through poor time management. These limitations could possibly be resolved, in
future, by having a better approach to my studies and assignments and the time I dedicate to
them. This would include reviewing and making note of important syllabus points (due dates,

IDENTITY IN TECHNOLOGY
etc.), pre-planning and or drafting assignments that should require more time to complete, as
well as, taking advantage of the Student resources facilities available at the International College
of the Cayman Islands, in regards to checking for the proper APA-style formatting and having
step-by-step assistance on developing an ideal section of coursework.
Conclusion
This Seminar was a very interesting experience, not only because of the information
gained during the trip to San Francisco, but the lessons Ive learned here in the Cayman Islands.
While the knowledge I have gained about technology and its vast and bright future, undoubtedly
the most valuable knowledge I have gained is that I cannot underestimate myself, or the work I
find myself doing and expect anything but failure. I can definitely learn from the many
successful people who presented in San Francisco who have put in many hours and effort into
their careers to find themselves where they are today.

IDENTITY IN TECHNOLOGY

IDENTITY IN TECHNOLOGY
References
Merriam-Webster, Dictionary. Retrieved from https://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/identity
Johnson, Chandr M. "Growing up digital: How the Internet affects teen identity."
DeseretNews.com. N.p., 2014. Web. 15 Dec. 2016.