Pre-class Discussion for Jan 17

• If your copy of Wisdom of Crowds, Chapter 1, has an illegible page 10 or page 11, try the Amazon Online Reader for the hardcover edition. I searched for a phrase on page 10 and read just those two pages online. Jumpingdeeps 21:31, 16 January 2008 (EST)

Lior Strahilevitz, 'How's My Driving?' for Everyone (and Everything?)

• As noted in my previous post when Prof. Zittrain discussed "How's My Driving," I am skeptical of using this reputation system for all non-commercial vehicles. I believe that it is a great program in the sense that it may reduce accidents, decrease aggressive driving, and create more courteous drivers. However, I am still not sold on the idea. Although we were not given the article in its entirety, I still have problems with abusive behavior, over-reporting of negative behavior (a concern mentioned by another student in the previous post), and multiple point deductions for one act. Abusive behavior and over-reporting were mentioned in the previous posts, so I won't mention it here. I am least concerned about the multiple reporting for the same act, since I believe there are possible methods of correction. Another point in "How's My Driving" that concerned me was the reporting for non-illegal behavior. Prof. Strahilevitz specifically states that "...illegal driving behavior annoys research subjects much less than various hostile gestures and discourtesy on roadway" (FN 123). Should someone receive point deductions for not being a nice person? Although I do not condone discourteous behavior and think that eliminating aggressive driving is a positive, why should we force people to pay fines for being discourteous if they did not break the law? It's possible that such behavior would not lead to point deductions and therefore would not effect the drivers, but then what would discourage this behavior? I do believe this system could ultimately work if applied correctly. However, I would like to see more studies before even playing with the idea of its implementation. Reputation systems may work on e-Bay and in other contexts. Will it really work with non-commercial vehicles? Even if there are positive results for commercial vehicles, installation of technological devices will make it much easier for people to report. Thus, the possibility of abuse is much greater. KStanfield 22:15, 16 January 2008 (EST)

• Although I think this type of reputation system does work well online in certain instances (like eBay), I am very concerned with the potential effects of a "How's My Driving?" system being implemented. Logistical difficulties aside, I think the more fundamental question is whether we as a society really want to start a precedent in which people report on each other? Even if it’s not required and only certain people do, doesn’t this create a cultural norm that we should be hesitant of? Anna 22:24, 16 January 2008 (EST)