New social architecture

Social software is changing the way that we structure our social frameworks. The architecture of our social networks is starting to morph because of the extensive use of internet technology. This article looks at Danah Boyd’s PhD research on the societal implications of systems such as Friendster, yafro, and others. The key is to identify the value of each system, and then attempt to leverage that in favor of the ACS.

On the obesity bandwagon

You might want to check-out this “New” feature at WebMD, an online weight-loss clinic.

Media attention to obesity

In quick succession I got a couple of glimpses of media’s current attention to the obesity problem. While channel surfing last night I came upon “CNN Presents,” a weekly, single-topic show. They did a pretty informative hour about obesity with interviews with experts and with weight-loss successes and failures.

Then this morning while getting ready for work I saw the NBC morning show (Katie, Matt and Al Roker who lost about half his body weight with a gastric bypass) did a segment about how fast-food chains and restaurant chains are shifting their menus to “healthier” fare. Evidently consumers are pressuring the chains to offer something better. Having lived through the ‘80s when McDonald’s McLean burger came and went—replaced by the double-patty, double-bacon, double-cheese burger—I’ve been skeptical that the food industry will do anything constructive. But this story said some chains are experimenting with seasonings to replace butter and frying. The chains say the public will not forego taste for healthier food. I can believe that. Only time will tell what the long-run consumer/industry interaction will be.

I’ll take this opportunity to once again plug the person I think is a great spokesperson for diet/exercise in media, Kathleen Daelemans.

Friendster or enemyster?

This social software is touchy stuff. It seems that the implicit agreement for these ephemeral processes is: “Hey, don’t run your agenda on me!”