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The Girl Who Was Plugged In Essay

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Science fiction can predict potential futures by drawing inspiration from contemporary environmental concerns. And as an audience, we often ask ourselves, 'What role does science fiction imagery play in shaping our visions of the environment?' Through descriptions and imaginative scenarios, science fiction vividly portrays the potential consequences that may appear or already exist in our life. In the story 'The Girl Who Was Plugged In' by James Tiptree Jr., it explores the intricate relationship between new technology, media influence, and our perception of the environment. This essay will argue about the new technology with 'artificial' elements, question authenticity, and the influence of technological 'Gods' on our surrounding environment. …show more content…

In the story "The Girl Who Was Plugged In" by James Tiptree Jr., the role of media and its impact on public perception is explored. In other words, the media plays a significant role in shaping societal values, which in turn shapes our visions of the environment we live in. By constructing an idealized image and lifestyle for consumers, the media manipulates public opinion and influences consumer behavior. It is worth noting that in this generation, influencers and celebrities are playing a similar role to "Delphi," as they both develop a perfect lifestyle in our society. In fact, our popular culture glorifies and aspires to their lifestyles. Celebrities and influencers extensively use social media to share even the smallest aspects of their lives and promote products. There is a sentence from the story states: "Because the cold-fire dress sells half a million copies, and not only in Texas. The GTX computers already know it" (Tiptree, pages 158). Delphi has taken many selfies and created instantly shareable videos that garner millions of views worldwide. This behavior reflects how social media influencers sell products. The character Mr. Cantle asks a question: "Now tell me, Delphi, why do people buy one product rather than another?" (Tiptree, pages 146). This question acknowledges that despite changes in the advertising landscape, the fundamental aspect of consumer behavior remains relevant. It highlights the underlying motivations behind consumer choices and purchasing decisions. This also has a major impact on consumption patterns. In the future, there will be a need for a revaluation of consumer behavior because we should not be dreaming of living the same life as 'Delphi'. However, there is no doubt about the benefits as the influence of media and celebrities can significantly

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The Girl Who Was Plugged In was written by James Tiptree Jr., a pen name used by American science fiction writer Alice B. Sheldon. Sheldon used a male pen name to write during this time, the late 1960’s and early 1970’s, because it was considered non viable for women to be successful science fiction writers. In 1977, her true identity had become known and she is noted for breaking down the barriers between writing as a “male” or a “female”. Originally, many had wondered if Tiptree was indeed female yet, her writing appeared to be strongly masculine. Her short story, The Girl Who Was Plugged In, won the 1973 Hugo Award for best short story and throughout the text Tiptree discusses various applied sciences and technologies of our future, making

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