Monday, May 11, 2009

Re: Action Center w/ Robert Sherman

Not much can be added to the poignant responses that students have already made. The Action Center is definitely an intriguing place, and one which will hopefully increase the commitments of interested children, adolescents, young adults et al. One thing I'm curious about however, is what the implications are of an action center relying heavily on internet technologies. In other words, what's the cost/benefit of a physical space using digital technologies available from home to facilitate action?

This speaks to the critique of any effort in a post-digital age that could be digitized and thus made more accessible: would it be better to auction off that space and use the funds to expand the reach of individuals' commitments? Should we be concerned that much of what goes on at the Action Center can be accomplished to varying degrees on the Action Center website? OR, does the potential of collaborative social justice really take hold in a dedicated, physical space? Does the prospect of visiting a space dedicated to ending world hunger in fact make it more accessible to school groups, college students visiting the city, industry professionals, etc?

What do you all think?

1 comment:

  1. provocative point, Eli. I think the poignancy of the other student director responses to the Action Center visit, as you point out, suggest the need and impact for dedicated physical space. Why was it so moving and inspiring for young leaders to visit an actual center, when so much of social action can take place digitally? I think we still have a deep, fundamental need connect together in person. This is why meet-ups are so important. Ultimately, I believe we need both social media networking and "real world" connecting to live full and fulfilling lives as global citizens, social changemakers (or in the case of FFF, social investors), and the mere mortals we are!

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