Understanding Cognitive Surplus and Its Impact

The video discusses the creation and impact of Ushahidi, a platform for crisis mapping, which emerged from the 2007 Kenyan elections. It introduces the concept of cognitive surplus, highlighting the potential of collective free time and digital tools for global collaboration. The video contrasts communal value, exemplified by LOLcats, with civic value, as seen in Ushahidi, emphasizing the importance of designing for generosity and intrinsic motivation. It concludes by exploring the potential of cognitive surplus to create societal change.

What event in Kenya led to the creation of Ushahidi?

• A natural disaster

• A disputed presidential election

• A financial crisis

• A technological breakthrough

What does the term 'cognitive surplus' refer to?

• The excess of digital tools available

• The abundance of media content

• The world's free time and talents

• The surplus of financial resources

How did media tools change people's behavior according to the transcript?

• They encouraged more consumption

• They reduced people's free time

• They enabled people to create and share

• They made people more passive

What is a LOLcat?

• A scientific journal

• A type of crisis mapping tool

• A creative act involving cat images and captions

• A social media platform

What is the main difference between LOLcats and Ushahidi?

• LOLcats are used globally, Ushahidi is not

• LOLcats require digital technology, Ushahidi does not

• LOLcats are open source, Ushahidi is not

• LOLcats are for entertainment, Ushahidi is for crisis mapping

What did the study on deterrence theory in daycare centers reveal?

• Fines had no effect on behavior

• Fines improved social constraints

• Fines reduced late pick-ups

• Fines increased late pick-ups

What is the impact of economic motivations on intrinsic motivations according to the study?

• They are compatible and enhance each other

• They are incompatible and can persist over time

• They only affect contractual obligations

• They have no effect on each other

What type of value does Ushahidi create?

• Communal value

• Civic value

• Economic value

• Personal value

What is the potential of cognitive surplus according to the transcript?

• To create societal change

• To reduce free time

• To enhance economic growth

• To increase media consumption

What choice do free cultures have according to Dean Kamen?

• To prioritize contractual obligations

• To limit media abundance

• To celebrate and support civic value

• To focus on economic growth