Postmodernist Theories of Digital Communication

Question 1

What do postmodernists believe?

Answer 1

• Rather than arguing that digital communication is positive or negative, postmodernists explore what is possible with new forms of technology
• As you can share is much on the internet, people have the ability to develop parts of their identity as well as building networks

Question 2

Collins (2005)

Answer 2

• He says by looking at social network sites using a ‘micro’ sociological approach helps us learn how people see the world around them
• We must consider the differences in on/offline lives
• For example, the TV series ‘Catfish’ shows how relationships are formed online with people who are completely different offline

Question 3

Bjorklund (1998)

Answer 3

• Explains that individuals have used autobiographies to describe their lives for a long time
• However, she said in a postmodern world digital communication allows people to manipulate and update their ongoing autobiography continually

Question 4

Hart (2011)

Answer 4

• Stated that people are writing and rewriting their autobiographies on a daily basis which reflect their own values of society
• Identities are created both online and offline
• People find like-minded friends on social networks
• Says Facebook posts are insignificant and superficial, but we can use events on Facebook to understand people’s feelings and actions in a social context

Question 5

Case (2007)

Answer 5

• Says this can be a challenge to adolescents as they have two lives growing up (one online and one offline)
• She states that a new social media makes it hard to remove mistakes as everything is visible – once you post something it’s hard to get rid of it
• She says people do not realise of what they say is stored online and people may find their private information has been disclosed

Question 6

Foucalt (1977)

Answer 6

• Someone who is being watched is less likely to omit crime as their chances of being caught are much greater
• So therefore, people have information collected on them, and this can control their behaviour, habits, preferences, and tastes
• For example, supermarkets will collect information on their customs through loyalty cards and online shopping