Thesis Statement
What does Nicholas Carr argue is happening to our brains because of the internet?
The internet is making us less able to concentrate and think deeply.
What is one of the main claims Carr makes about the internet's impact on reading?
It promotes skimming rather than deep reading.
What type of evidence does Carr use to support his claims?
Personal anecdotes and studies on brain activity.
How does Carr conclude his essay?
By expressing concern over the long-term implications of the internet on our minds.
Complete the quote: "Once I was a scuba diver in the sea of words. Now I zip along the surface like a __________."
Jet ski
How does Carr introduce his thesis in the essay?
By describing his personal experiences and the experiences of his friends who feel their thinking is changing.
How does Carr claim the internet affects our ability to concentrate?
It shortens our attention spans.
Which study does Carr cite about how reading online changes brain activity?
A study by University College London.
What final warning does Carr give about our reliance on the internet?
We may be sacrificing our capacity for deep thinking and reflection.
Who does Carr quote saying that the internet is "chipping away" his capacity for concentration and contemplation?
Himself, describing his own experiences.
What specific technology does Carr primarily blame for the change in our cognitive abilities?
Google and the internet in general.
What historical comparison does Carr make to the internet’s impact on cognition?
The invention of the printing press.
How does Carr use historical analogies to support his argument?
By comparing the internet to other technological advances like the printing press.
How does Carr suggest we view technological progress?
With caution, considering its potential impact on our cognitive abilities.
Who is the playwright that Carr quotes saying, "The medium is the message"?
Marshall McLuhan.
How does Carr describe the change in his own reading habits?
He finds it harder to concentrate on long pieces of writing.
What does Carr claim about the depth of our thoughts due to the internet?
Our thoughts are becoming more superficial.
What evidence does Carr use to show that even experts are concerned about the internet’s impact?
Quotes from professors and scientists expressing concern.
What does Carr propose we do in response to his findings?
He suggests we need to be more mindful of how we use technology.
Which philosopher does Carr reference regarding how tools shape our thoughts?
Friedrich Nietzsche.
In what way does Carr suggest our thinking is becoming more "staccato"?
We are skimming and scanning information rather than reading deeply.
What does Carr argue about the relationship between the internet and knowledge?
The internet is making it harder to retain knowledge.
How does Carr use the example of Friedrich Nietzsche to support his argument?
He explains how Nietzsche’s writing style changed when he started using a typewriter.
What overall tone does Carr use in his conclusion?
A tone of caution and concern.
What does Carr quote from a 2008 study on internet behavior?
People using the internet read in an "F" pattern.