In this course, we looked into the power of the Internet in China from different perspectives – online public/community formation, digitally mediated visibility (of the state), visuality (e.g. proliferation of unorthodox images), participatory culture,

In this course, we looked into the power of the Internet in China from different perspectives – online public/community formation, digitally mediated visibility (of the state), visuality (e.g. proliferation of unorthodox images), participatory culture, etc. In this essay, make your own argument about the power of the Internet in China. I ask that you focus on one perspective or concept and make it the core surrounding which you construct your argument. You may find it necessary or helpful to draw on other perspectives. For example, if you focus on participatory culture, you may touch upon phenomena related to the increased negative visibility of state officials. Selectively incorporating other concepts may make your argument more sophisticated and therefore is encouraged (though not required). However, you must make sure that your essay has its core focus and core argument. I cannot emphasize enough that everything you write should revolve around that core.

Your essay must include an introduction, a main body, and a conclusion.

In the introduction, articulate your thesis and provide a preview of what you intend to do in this essay. Avoid empty or vague generalizations. Cut to the chase fast. A powerful intro normally does not exceed ¾ page for an essay like this.

You have about four pages to develop your main thesis in the main body. Different people have different habits of constructing arguments. Nonetheless, the following elements should be present in the main body. (1) An explanation of your key perspective or core concept; (2) its manifestation and application in this particular context, that is, the context of discussing the Internet in China; (3) how this perspective/concept gives you a better understanding of the power of the Internet in China. Make one point at a time; do not cram multiple points into one paragraph. Organize paragraphs in a way that demonstrates logical thinking. Demonstrate progress from one point to another until you reach your conclusion. Whenever you make a claim, always back it up with evidence. Avoid empty, vague or unsupported generalizations.

In the conclusion, provide a summary of your argument. It is also a place where you may raise questions for further reflection or research.

To successfully complete this essay, you will find it useful to cite sources from the course readings and handouts in class. It is important not to restrict yourself to a single week’s reading. For example, for an essay with participatory culture at the core, I will expect it to draw upon not just Week 11’s readings, but readings from other weeks as well (for example, Voci’s discussion of egao videos). If you find it necessary to bring in outside readings, that is permitted.

Citation style: APA or MLA

Length and format: 5 – 7 pages, double-spaced, Times New Roman, Font 12, paginated, name and title on first page, saved in a Word document (not PDF please)

In this course, we looked into the power of the Internet in China from different perspectives – online public/community formation, digitally mediated visibility (of the state), visuality (e.g. proliferation of unorthodox images), participatory culture,

In this course, we looked into the power of the Internet in China from different perspectives – online public/community formation, digitally mediated visibility (of the state), visuality (e.g. proliferation of unorthodox images), participatory culture, etc. In this essay, make your own argument about the power of the Internet in China. I ask that you focus on one perspective or concept and make it the core surrounding which you construct your argument. You may find it necessary or helpful to draw on other perspectives. For example, if you focus on participatory culture, you may touch upon phenomena related to the increased negative visibility of state officials. Selectively incorporating other concepts may make your argument more sophisticated and therefore is encouraged (though not required). However, you must make sure that your essay has its core focus and core argument. I cannot emphasize enough that everything you write should revolve around that core.

Your essay must include an introduction, a main body, and a conclusion.

In the introduction, articulate your thesis and provide a preview of what you intend to do in this essay. Avoid empty or vague generalizations. Cut to the chase fast. A powerful intro normally does not exceed ¾ page for an essay like this.

You have about four pages to develop your main thesis in the main body. Different people have different habits of constructing arguments. Nonetheless, the following elements should be present in the main body. (1) An explanation of your key perspective or core concept; (2) its manifestation and application in this particular context, that is, the context of discussing the Internet in China; (3) how this perspective/concept gives you a better understanding of the power of the Internet in China. Make one point at a time; do not cram multiple points into one paragraph. Organize paragraphs in a way that demonstrates logical thinking. Demonstrate progress from one point to another until you reach your conclusion. Whenever you make a claim, always back it up with evidence. Avoid empty, vague or unsupported generalizations.

In the conclusion, provide a summary of your argument. It is also a place where you may raise questions for further reflection or research.

To successfully complete this essay, you will find it useful to cite sources from the course readings and handouts in class. It is important not to restrict yourself to a single week’s reading. For example, for an essay with participatory culture at the core, I will expect it to draw upon not just Week 11’s readings, but readings from other weeks as well (for example, Voci’s discussion of egao videos). If you find it necessary to bring in outside readings, that is permitted.

Citation style: APA or MLA

Length and format: 5 – 7 pages, double-spaced, Times New Roman, Font 12, paginated, name and title on first page, saved in a Word document (not PDF please)