Blog Entry #7

The author of the first example proposes that instead of using hard copies of textbooks, Arizona State University should look into utilizing solely online textbooks. This would contribute to the environment, and reduce the costs for students. Personally, I agree with this perspective. I currently use e-books for a few of my courses and I find them much more convenient and accessible than a hard copy. I think that the author could have mentioned how many of us are from out-of-state and it would be much more comfortable and proper to simply pack our laptops or iPads when we go home for the holidays than to have to carry our laptops and books as well. I think the people who would be resistant to this sort of change are those who are reluctant to change. For some it may be comforting to have a tangible source in front of them when working on an assignment. However, society and our way of life is evolving along with technology. This means that we have to adapt and look towards the future. I also believe that certain professors would oppose this argument as well. Several professors publish their own textbooks for their courses and go on to publish modified editions. If Arizona State University were to use only online textbooks, those professors whom publish their own textbooks and the publishing companies that publish those books would lose a considerable amount of money. I think the author used ethos considerably well. When he made a point as to why e-books are a good idea he had really good arguments to back up his stance. Because the author developed a strong argument and had good points to support him, I think this is a good model for our proposal argument.