Blog 1 – Quote Reflection (Bemnet Abebayehu)

I am not a maker. In a value system that is about creating artifacts, specifically ones you can sell, I am a less valuable human.

Debbie Chachra, “Why I Am Not a Maker,” The Atlantic, January 23, 2015.

I was very moved by this passage from Debbie Chachra’s piece for a variety of reasons. I was drawn to this text because it contradicts the widely held belief that one’s value is determined by their capacity to create physical, marketable goods. This quotation serves as a reminder that our value as people goes far beyond our ability to produce products that can be sold in a world that is becoming more and more concerned with production and manufacturing. 

I can relate to this remark on a personal level because it supports my own experiences and ideas. I’ve experienced pressure to adopt a mindset that connects success with being a “maker” in a traditional sense — someone who creates material things for profit — throughout my life. But my interests and goals have always been more inclined toward learning new things, coming up with new solutions to problems, and working with others on projects that might not provide results right away. Chachra’s statements emphasize how crucial it is to acknowledge and value various contributions, whether they include forging tangible items or improving human understanding and happiness. 

This quote encourages me to explore areas of research and methodologies that focus on the humanistic qualities of technology within the context of the Digital Humanities. Projects that emphasize the social and ethical aspects of digital technology, as well as those that advance inclusivity and accessibility in the digital sphere, are of special interest to me. Additionally, I’m intrigued by exploring digital storytelling and narrative techniques as a way to engage audiences more deeply and express important messages. Understanding the effects of technology on society and human values is crucial in a world where technology is developing quickly. This term, I intend to contribute to these important discussions and bring change to this certain community as well.