Brainstorming for my Research Paper

While all of the options for the research paper topics appeal to me, some seem more feasible than others. The two topics that interested me most are the two I'll decide between to tackle for my paper. The research paper idea #1 is my first option. I'd like to do a close reading/ analysis of the original issue of The New Yorker magazine which featured Ian McEwan's "Us or Me". I'll then discuss it's presentation of science in terms of the short story itself, with regards to the advertising and current events featured in the issue. I find this option appealing because I think it will be a fun challenge to get my hands on such an issue, and I also think it'd be interesting to revisit that time and analyze it. I've never done a research paper using this method, and I think this will force me to use new, and different skills. I also think that the magazine issue will provide plenty of relevant information and resource so that I can write a solid paper. I'm slightly worried about attaining an original copy, or e-copy of the issue, so that may be the one losing point for this option.

However, the option that is giving me no trouble at all is research paper idea #2. I'd be very interested to discuss the promise and peril of technology because I have plenty to say on the topic. I also enjoy being able to write a paper that presents both sides, and that is a requirement of this essay.  I am very interested in either discussing the challenges of a "car-driven future" vs. global warming OR new computers vs. e-waste. I enjoyed the short film I viewed in class about the truth of e-waste, and ever since I'd been interested in gaining more knowledge on the subject. However, I also really liked "The Worlds Fair" reading and advertisements we viewed earlier in the semester, which would aid me to write about the promises of a utopian suburbia.


After giving it much thought and consideration, I've decided on the subject of Ian McEwans "Us or Me" in the original issue of The New Yorker magazine. I decided to embark on this challenge because it will be slightly more difficult but I think I'll find that my end product will be more rewarding.