the power and fragility of memory

WILL NEED TO WATCH 2004 FILM “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Min
SINCE THIS IS A LONG PROJECT I WILL MAKE IT A$100 TOTAL. 54.32 + TIP WILL BE A FULL $100
CONSIDER the stories featured in this week’s reading, and what they each say about the power and fragility of memory. Consider further what it would mean to alter our memories on demand; to eliminate everything traumatic, painful, or just plain embarrassing from our past; to erase any trace of former friends and loved ones whom we’ve lost one way or another. Consider the ethics of such a technology existing, and whether or not it should be available to the public – and whether or not you would partake in it if it were. What are the possibilities? What are the consequences? What would the short- and long-term effect be on all of us, as individuals and as a society?

COMPOSE an argument (1200 – 1400 words) that answers the following question:
Is the ability to alter memory on demand a good idea or a bad idea?
(I know you want to say “both.” I know. But I am, again, going to encourage you to choose ultimately ONE answer.)
Your argument should take into account the considerations listed above as well as the stories presented in this week’s reading. It should include direct reference to those stories, including quotes from podcast reporters and interview subjects, and specific scenes from the film. It should be clear that your argument has been informed by these examples – though you may also bring in additional (cited) references if they prove useful.
Your argument must include all applicable elements of argumentation; it must be grounded by a clear thesis, built around solid claims, held up by strong support, and fleshed out with well-reasoned warrants. Fallacies should be avoided with preventative rebuttals. Your argument should be cohesive and deliberately constructed; components should logically connect.
ANNOTATE your essay using highlighting to identify each argument component. Use the following color code:
Highlight the THESIS in light purple.
Highlight each CLAIM in light green.
Highlight each SUPPORT in light yellow.
Highlight each WARRANT in light blue.
Highlight each REBUTTAL in light red.
It should be clear from your highlights that 1) you understand the role of each argument component, and that 2) you’ve deliberately composed your argument to include each of those components. Each part of your argument should serve a purpose, which means that there should be no sections left without highlights.

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