Author(s): Marija Vujović, Neven Obradović
Year of publication: 2017
Keywords: Online media, Intercultural communication, Global Village, Information sharing, Media literacy
Methodology/Sample: _/_
Reference: Vujović, M., & Obradović, N. (2017). Online media and intercultural communication. Facta Universitatis, Series: Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology and History, 16(1), 51 – 61. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.22190/fupsph1701051v
Abstract
The emergence of the Internet has led to tectonic changes in all aspects of human life, and certainly the most important ones occurred in communication and information. The term “Global Village”, which was first used by Marshall McLuhan in his “Report on the project of understanding new media” in 1960, seems to be more current today than ever. The emergence of online media, social networks and many other applications has enabled people to connect and communicate no matter where they are on the planet. However, despite all the positive effects that communication networks have brought with them, there are many negative aspects of intercultural communication that have been retained to the same or even greater extent, creating the so-called “noise” or disruption of communication. One of the best examples of this is the comments in the online media. This an essential segment of online journalism, and it proved to be a fruitful intercultural communication channel, which is why this paper will put special emphasis on the readers’ comments.
> Summary
- The paper discusses the transformative impact of the Internet on communication, emphasizing the concept of a “Global Village” as articulated by McLuhan.
- It highlights both the positive and negative aspects of intercultural communication, particularly through online media and readers’ comments.
- The authors argue that online media can serve as transcultural mediators, fostering mutual communication while adhering to journalistic ethics.
- However, the proliferation of misinformation poses significant risks to intercultural dialogue, especially in regions with low media literacy, such as the former Yugoslavia.
> Problem statement
- The paper discusses the overwhelming issues in online media that damage societal relations more than they contribute positively.
- It highlights the challenge of unregulated online media leading to misinformation and threats to intercultural communication.
- The need for a regulatory framework to ensure responsible content display is emphasized as a critical issue.
- The paper identifies a lack of media literacy and education as a significant barrier to addressing these problems.
- Overall, it portrays a crisis in communication exacerbated by the Internet’s rapid evolution and the resulting “noise” in intercultural exchanges.
> Methods used
Not addressed in the paper.
> Practical implications
- Media literacy is essential for both young and elderly to navigate online information effectively.
- Education about democracy and economics is crucial for societal progress.
- Improved information sharing can enhance intercultural communication among diverse populations.
- Critical thinking skills are necessary for citizens to demand quality journalism.
- The Internet’s potential for education must be harnessed to combat misinformation.
- The paper emphasizes the need for addressing the negative aspects of online communication.