December 24, 2024

Research and Writing



In this blog, I will answer questions on two types of research, a paraphrasing activity and discuss CIS. This blog is a thinking activity assigned by Prakruti Ma’am. 


1. In your opinion, should research always strive to achieve something new and creative or is it ok to pursue an existing direction and arrive at newer understanding of the same? In which one of these two categories would you classify the topic that you have chosen for your dissertation? 

I believe that both of these type of research are essential. A research that strives to achieve something new and creative would lead to ground breaking discoveries. On the other hand, revisiting existing research with new tools and perspective can lead to a deeper understanding. These re-evaluations are crucial in a field like literature. 

My dissertation topic is about comparing myths across the world. Although I do strive to unveil something new with this research, I would classify this as the second type of research because I am pursuing an existing direction. My work will be building on the foundation of prior works. 



2. Ask a chatbot of your choice to paraphrase the following passage. Check the paraphrase it gives you by answering the questions attached below the paragraph.


Original Paragraph - 

"There is little to be gained from seeking to isolate any artistic form or movement from its antecedents and counterparts. Myopia is the product of critical segregation, wherein readers disengage practices from those contexts that have forged their contours. This might seem obvious, but there is value in rearticulating the axiomatic in times of transformation--when something "new" emerges, many of us fall into the trap of isolating our darlings, whether old or young, from all those other contexts that play a significant role in their construction. How does one look at electronic literature without considering the literary, the ludic, that which we can see, touch, and hear---how does one look critically at anything without such frames of reference, and how do we overcome natural limitations in capacity when attempting to do so? The best we can do is look to those who have gone before, build upon their foundation, and indeed, emphasize those aspects of an exploration we deem worthy of greater emphasis." (Sullivan)


Paraphrase by Chat GPT - 

It is unproductive to attempt to separate any artistic form or movement from its predecessors and related contexts. Such critical isolation often leads to a narrow perspective, where practices are removed from the influences that have shaped them. While this may seem self-evident, it is important to restate foundational principles during periods of change—particularly when something “new” arises, as we often isolate our preferred ideas or creations, whether established or emerging, from the broader contexts that contribute to their development. For instance, how can we examine electronic literature without acknowledging its connections to traditional literature, play, and sensory experiences? How can we critically analyze anything without these contextual frames, and how do we address the inherent challenges in doing so? The most effective approach is to learn from those who came before us, build on their work, and highlight the elements we consider most significant for further exploration.


After receiving the bot's response, answer the following questions:

1) Is the paraphrase approximately the same length as the original passage?

Yes the paraphrased passage provided by Chat GPT is almost the same length as the original passage. 


2) Has any part of the passage been copied word for word?

No, there isn’t any part that has been copied entirely. The wording has been altered. Take the following lines for example. 

Original passage - How does one look at electronic literature without considering the literary, the ludic, that which we can see, touch, and hear” 

These are paraphrased like this - “how can we examine electronic literature without acknowledging its connections to traditional literature, play, and sensory experiences?”

The words are changed but the meaning remains the same. 


3) Does the paraphrase have the same meaning as the passage?

Yes. The words have changed but the meaning remains the same. 




3. What is the full form of CIS? Discuss some of the types of searches which can be employed to search for sources in a library equipped with CIS.


The full form of CIS is as follows - 


C - Central  

I - Information 

S - System


It refers to a library management system or software that allows users to search for library resources efficiently using digital means. Normally, it includes the library’s catalogue of holdings, bibliographic databases, and other electronic resources. 


Some types of searches which can be employed are as follows - 


Title Search: If the user knows the exact title of a resource, they can input it into the system to locate it quickly. Partial titles can also be used with wildcard characters.


Author Search: Users can search for books, articles, or other resources by entering the name of an author. It is beneficial for those looking for works by a particular writer or researcher. 


Subject Search: This type of search focuses on a specific subject or topic. Users can enter predefined subject terms or categories to find all resources classified under that subject. 


Boolean Search: Using Boolean operators like AND, OR, and NOT, users can refine their searches. For example, “colonialism AND literature” will find sources that include both terms. 


Bibliographic Search: Users can search using specific bibliographic information such as ISBN, ISSN, or call numbers.



Words - 918

Images - 3

References - 

MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers, 7th Edition. American Greetings, 2009.



December 14, 2024

Manifesting the Future, Battling Brain Rot: Words of the Year 2024

 Manifesting the Future, Battling Brain Rot: Words of the Year 2024



Each year, the Words of the Year selected by renowned dictionaries capture the zeitgeist, reflecting evolving language trends and societal preoccupations. In 2024, Cambridge Dictionary chose “Manifest”, spotlighting the rise of manifesting—a self-help practice of visualizing goals to achieve them. Meanwhile, the Oxford Word of the Year, “Brain Rot”, humorously critiques the digital age’s overconsumption of trivial online content. This blog is a Sunday reading activity assigned by Barad Sir, based on these words. You can check out his blog here - Brain Rot and Manifest


Brain Rot 


(Image generated by Chat GPT)

“Brain rot” refers to the perceived mental decline caused by overconsuming trivial or low-value online content. Popular among Gen Z, it humorously critiques the addictive and mindless nature of some internet content, such as viral memes and TikTok videos. The term gained traction in 2024, reflecting societal concerns over the digital age’s impact on mental health. It saw a 230% increase in usage from 2023 to 2024, with discussions extending into journalism and mental health advocacy. The phrase was first recorded in 1854 in Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden,” where he used it to criticize intellectual decline. In 2024, it became a humorous yet serious metaphor for the effects of internet culture. 


You an read more about it on the official Oxford website - Word of the Year: Brain Rot 



(Image generated by Meta AI)


The passive consumption of social media content has become an almost universal habit in today’s digital age. Advanced algorithms employed by platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, etc. are designed to curate highly personalized feeds, making the content almost irresistible to users. However, the convenience and allure of such consumption come with significant side effects, including the erosion of attention spans, declining academic focus, and an alarming rise in mental health concerns.


I’ve personally experienced this phenomenon of “brain rot.” There have been countless times when I’ve opened Instagram with the intention of a quick scroll, only to lose an hour or even two, mindlessly flicking through reels and posts. When I finally manage to pull myself away, it feels as though my brain is in a fog, unable to process or think clearly. The vibrant images, rapid cuts, and endless stream of content leave my mind overstimulated yet oddly depleted, as if the ability to focus has been temporarily stolen. 



To know more about Brain Rot, you can check out this video - 



Manifest 


(Image generated by Chat GPT)


“Manifest” gained popularity due to the global trend of manifesting—believing that visualizing one’s goals can make them more achievable. While rooted in a century-old spiritual philosophy, the word has been heavily used on social media platforms like TikTok, symbolizing self-help and goal-setting trends. Celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Gabby Thomas referenced manifesting success, boosting its use. The word was looked up nearly 130,000 times on the Cambridge Dictionary website in 2024. Psychologists warn against the pseudoscientific nature of manifesting, emphasizing its risks, such as promoting unrealistic expectations.


You can check out more details on the official website of Cambridge University - Word of the Year: Manifest 




The rise of “manifest” reflects a widespread fascination with magical thinking particularly in uncertain times. Emerging from a century-old spiritual philosophy, manifesting gained mainstream traction on social media, with billions engaging with #manifest posts. Its appeal lies in its optimism and accessibility, providing a sense of control in a chaotic world. While manifesting promotes goal-setting and self-belief, its pseudoscientific roots raise concerns. Critics warn that it may foster unrealistic expectations, undermine practical problem-solving, or perpetuate the idea that success is solely a matter of mindset.


The concept of manifestation has gained immense popularity in recent years, deeply resonating with individuals seeking control and comfort in an unpredictable world. Books like ‘The Secret’ by Rhonda Byrne and ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho emphasize the power of visualization and positive thinking in achieving one’s dreams. For me, Shah Rukh Khan’s famous dialogue from ‘Om Shanti Om’, embodies the essence of manifestation. 



This surge in belief is particularly noticeable during the New Year season. Lately, my Instagram feed overflows with vision boards— a manifestation technique where people visually map out their aspirations for the coming year. The practice, rooted in the idea that positive thinking can shape reality, provides a deep sense of hope and comfort. In a fast-paced, often chaotic world, it serves as a mental anchor, encouraging people to dream big and maintain a positive outlook.


However, it is crucial to balance optimism with practicality. The simple truth is that no goal can be achieved without actionable steps. Visualization may spark motivation, but success ultimately depends on consistent effort, planning, and perseverance. Without these, manifestation can lead to unrealistic expectations and inevitable disappointment.



Conclusion

The Words of the Year for 2024 “Manifest” and “Brain Rot”, perfectly encapsulate the duality of modern existence. On one hand, “Manifest” reflects an enduring optimism, offering individuals a sense of control and hope amidst uncertainty. On the other, “Brain Rot” serves as a humorous yet cautionary critique of the digital age, highlighting the mental toll of excessive online consumption. Together, they reveal our collective struggle to navigate a rapidly changing world, balancing aspiration with realism and connectivity with mindfulness. As we move forward, these terms remind us to dream boldly but live consciously.



Words - 972

Images - 6

Videos - 2

References - 

Barad, Dilip. Thinking Activity: Exploring the Words of the Year 2024 | Brain Rot and Manifest. 13 December 2024, https://blog.dilipbarad.com/2024/12/brain-rot-and-manifest.html. Accessed 14 December 2024.


“'Brain rot' named Oxford Word of the Year 2024.” Oxford University Press, 2 December 2024, https://corp.oup.com/news/brain-rot-named-oxford-word-of-the-year-2024/. Accessed 15 December 2024.

Cambridge. 'Manifest' is Cambridge Dictionary's Word of the Year 2024https://www.cambridge.org/news-and-insights/word-of-the-year-2024 . Accessed 14 December 2024.


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