3: Networks and Communication

Network and communication technology are significant plot devices in Big Hero 6 whether you notice it or not. Baymax, Hiro's robot healthcare companion made by his brother, relies on advanced communication systems to access medical data to understand human needs and interact seamlessly with patients. Moreover, the microbots' neural transmitter demonstrates the potential and the risks of centralized communication networks. When used ethically, these networks enable incredible advancements. When misused, they can become tools for destruction. The movie highlights the double-edged sword of connected technologies, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations in their development and use. In relation to current events the neural link transmitter technology used in the movie is similar to what we are seeing in current events. The technology seen bears a strong resemblance to Elon Musk's recent invention of the Neuralink. Which is a neurotechnology that is a surgically embedded neural chip implant designed to decode and stimulate brain activity. Which is a less convenient and powerful piece of technology compared to the one shown in the movie but its functionality is the same. That functionality is to aid the user in the use of technology solely through the chemical messages their brain produces. In the movie, this is something more seen as a superpower for destruction rather than to aid people. But in real life, this technology is used to aid people affected by conditions that inhibit their ability to access technology normally. Going back to technology Baymax uses to provide care for his patients. He must connect and access medical databases to diagnose and provide treatment for patients. This is similar to how doctors in real life diagnose a patient by combining their personal expertise and inputting symptoms into databases that return what would be the most likely cause of those symptoms. Showing how medical databases are actively used to treat patients instead of entirely relying on hands-on experience. The film also demonstrates how network and communication technologies influence teamwork and problem-solving. For example, the team’s ability to coordinate during battles relies on their interconnected suits and shared data systems, which enhance their capabilities and create a group effort. This synergy mirrors real-world advancements in networked devices, where seamless communication drives efficiency and innovation. However, Big Hero 6 also hints at the vulnerabilities of such reliance on interconnected systems. If compromised, these networks could lead to negative consequences, as seen when the villain (Yokai) uses the microbot's neural link to execute his revenge plan. The story encourages viewers to consider the trade-offs between the benefits of interconnected technologies.

Alexander Lo