Week 7 & 8 (12/10/07-12/21/07) Question of the Week

The question of the weeks spans this week and next week. Since there are 3 meetings this week and 1 meeting next week, this Question of the Week needs to be at least 400 words and is worth 40 points. It is due by 5:00 PM on Friday, 12/21/07.

Here's the question: Since the Sony Reader and the new-for-Christmas Amazon Kindle are on the market for ebooks, do you think we still need books made of paper?

Some background: Electronic books are now accessible with the two electronic book devices that are currently on the market. The Sony Reader retails for $299.00 and includes 100 book downloads. The brand new Amazon Kindle costs $399.00. They are compared here:
http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/ebook-faceoff/amazon-kindle-vs-sony-reader-sizemodo-and-interface-comparison-gallery-326590.php

http://www.news.com/8301-10784_3-9820409-7.html

Info on the Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-Amazons-Wireless-Reading-Device/dp/B000FI73MA

Info on the Sony Reader: http://www.learningcenter.sony.us/assets/itpd/reader/reader_features.html

Here are some thoughts to consider as you fashion your response: Is there something intrinsically satisfying about sitting in front of a fireplace sipping hot chocolate with your favorite paperback novel? What happens when you need a battery charge for your book at a critical moment? Wouldn't it be nice if our backpacks didn't have to be sturdy enough to carry 50 lbs. of books? And how about our backs? Are all the books you might need or want available in electronic format yet? Are pencils and pens soon to be obsolete? Are there advantages for those who are sight impaired with ebooks?

Finally, for Will the eBook finally replace paper? see http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2006/oct/05/guardianweeklytechnologysection4