Fox News published an article recently about a new app that has come out. The "Ugly Meter" is a popular app in ITunes. However, this app has parents and anti-bullying organizations concerned. The app claims to scan facial details in a photograph and then assign a rating of 0 to 10 on the so-called "Ugly Scale." After the picture has been rated, then a joke is provided depending on how ugly the picture was. This app has a total if not more than 3 million downloads. The latest version of the app allows individuals to post "Your Ugly Photos" to Facebook or Twitter. The new version also has meaner insults. The app is rated appropriate for ages 9+ by ITunes. The app costs $0.99. Some are worried about the affects this could have on some children's self-esteem. However, the creators of the app said that the app was intended for use with friends to have fun and they believe the media is overreacting.
This is a touchy article and subject, no doubt. I can see both sides of the argument that is being made here. Nevertheless, we must all seek balance and rationality in situations like this.
This is a very tough article and subject. I don't quite know how I feel about this. I can see why so many people are concerned about this app. There are so many cruel and disrespectful children and young adults this day that could cause concern. Cyber-bullying is a real problem these days. Many children and individuals will say things on the internet or over a text message that they would never say to someones face. Therefore, the "Ugly Meter" app must be taken into consideration. There are many young children who would use this app to absolutely degrade and ridicule their peers. This is cause for concern and attention. However, I see the side of the makers of the app. The makers of the app never intended for this to be a problem. They just made the app so that friends could joke around with each other. They said that they meant no harm. I think that this is okay, but I think that the makers should have thought more about the app before they created it. While there are a few people that would use the app for light-hearted, innocent fun, there is a great majority (especially young individuals) who would use the app for harm. I just don't see the need for an app like this. When used in the proper context, the app might be a fun thing. However, overall I think the app will probably do more harm than good. I do realize that the media can blow things out of proportion, so I believe that it is only proper that we strive for a good, balanced view of situations like these.
What do you think? Do think the media is overreacting or do you think the app truly is a bad invention? Would you let your children buy this app or would you recommend this app?
No comments:
Post a Comment