Intercom Exam 1 PDF

intercom week 1 origin of communication 1. Origins of Communication Communication was hindered by geography in early times. Ancient civilizations, like the Greeks, explained life with myths and supernatural stories. Maps included imaginary creatures like Cyclopes, monsters, and mythical lands....

intercom week 1 origin of communication 1. Origins of Communication Communication was hindered by geography in early times. Ancient civilizations, like the Greeks, explained life with myths and supernatural stories. Maps included imaginary creatures like Cyclopes, monsters, and mythical lands. Stories like those of Attila’s campaigns popularized myths such as dragons and sea serpents. 2. Role of Empires in Communication Empires needed efficient communication to manage territories. Example: Persian King Darius I used a network of shouting men for faster communication, 30 times quicker than runners. Greeks, Romans, and Chinese relied on inscriptions, postal systems, and other innovations. 3. Key Advancements in Communication Writing Systems: Example: Acta Diurna, Julius Caesar’s news bulletin, spread information in the Roman Empire. Indian Emperor Ashoka’s edicts and Chinese newspapers (Tang Dynasty) helped centralize power. The Silk Road: Facilitated the exchange of goods and culture between Europe and Asia. 4. Printing Revolution Paper-making spread from China to Europe through the Islamic world. Johann Gutenberg invented the movable type printing press in the 15th century, enabling mass production of books. This contributed to the Protestant Reformation by translating the Bible into local languages. 5. 19th Century Innovations Industrial revolution fueled advancements: Postal reforms (Penny Black stamp in 1840). Telegraph by Samuel Morse in 1837, enabling faster communication. Global trade and journalism expanded with innovations like undersea cables. 6. Mass Media Development Newspapers, films, and music became global phenomena in the 19th and 20th centuries. Agencies like Reuters (UK), Havas (France), and Wolff (Germany) shaped global news networks. Radio emerged as a powerful tool for propaganda and news dissemination. 7. World Wars and Communication Radio and telegraph played vital roles in propaganda and wartime coordination. Nations like the Soviet Union, Nazi Germany, and Britain used communication to mobilize people and spread ideologies. 8. Cold War Communication Propaganda through radio (e.g., Voice of America, BBC) was a major tool for ideological influence. The US and Soviet Union competed to control information. 9. Issues in Global Communication Imbalances in communication flows between developed and developing nations led to dependency. Western countries dominated global media, leading to calls for a New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO). 10. Technological and Cultural Exchange Technologies like papermaking, printing, and the telegraph evolved through cultural exchange. Advances were shaped by social, political, and economic needs. week 2 The Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Evolution of Global Communication Introduction to the Fourth Industrial Revolution Quote by Klaus Schwab "The Fourth Industrial Revolution merges physical, digital, and biological worlds. It has the potential to transform humanity fundamentally. The impact depends on how risks and opportunities are navigated." Key Points: Merging Worlds: The Fourth Industrial Revolution integrates physical, digital, and biological realms, shaping our future in fundamental ways. Impact: Its transformative potential depends on how society manages its risks and embraces its opportunities. Telecommunications at the Core: Compared to previous industrial revolutions, the Fourth Industrial Revolution has an even broader and deeper impact on life, society, and global economies. Telecommunications play a central role by enabling the connections that drive this transformation, fostering communication and global integration. Global Communication and Globalization Global Communication’s Role: Emerged as a post-Cold War phenomenon, driven by technological advances. Has reshaped economic, social, cultural, political, and structural aspects of nations. Leads to greater interdependence and interconnectedness, creating a "global village" (Marshall McLuhan's concept), where the world feels more connected. Definitions of Globalization: Mittelman (1997): Globalization is the overcoming of barriers between states through telecommunications and modern transportation, reducing the relevance of borders. Steger (2004): Globalization is a multidimensional process deepening social interdependence and connections across the globe. Capitalist Roots of Globalization: Became prominent after the fall of socialism and communism, driven by capitalist economic systems. Post-Cold War, capitalism and the rapid expansion of telecommunications fueled globalization. Historical Foundations of Communication Communication as Power: Efficient communication was key to the success of ancient empires such as Persia, Rome, and China. Persia: Darius I’s shouting relay system allowed for rapid military communication (30 times faster than runners). Gauls: Used fire and smoke signals for military coordination. Roman Empire: Utilized written inscriptions and postal systems to maintain governance over vast territories. Julius Caesar’s Contribution: Introduced the Acta Diurna, an early form of public news media, distributed throughout the Roman Empire to keep citizens informed about political and military events. Communication’s Role in History Transformation of Physical Space: Communication technologies reduced the limitations of physical space, creating what is described as a “geography of experience” (Wark, 1994). As communication systems evolved from simple to more advanced technologies, they redefined how societies functioned. Medieval Perspectives on Communication: Historians note that communication technologies often arise from and shape complex social and political conditions. Interplay of Technology and Society: Faster communication spurred political and social changes, such as the spread of ideas and the development of governance. Communication technologies not only reflect cultural conditions but also influence them, altering the course of history. Early Innovations in Communication Technologies from Early Cultures: Papermaking (China): First developed by the ancient Chinese, papermaking spread to Europe through the Arab world, which later contributed to the rise of written knowledge in the West. Movable Metal Type Printing (Germany): Revolutionized mass communication and spread information to a wider audience. Magnetic Compass (Asia): Allowed for more precise navigation and played a crucial role in telegraph signal transmission. Impact of Key Inventions: Printing Press and Telegraph: These inventions fundamentally redefined the boundaries of time and space. They helped to eliminate barriers to the distribution of information, making communication faster and more accessible. Scientific and Social Processes: Many of these early innovations solved long-standing practical challenges and set the stage for future transformative periods, such as: The Industrial Revolution: Enabled mass production and modern industrial economies. The Information Revolution: Facilitated rapid digital communication, further connecting the world. week 3 global economic Pre-Modern World (13th Century) 1 Local Production: Most goods were made locally (within 100km). 2 Foreign Goods: Only kings, queens, and the rich could afford imported items like gems and silk. 3 Custom-Made: Items like shoes were handmade for individuals. Modern World 1 Division of Labor: Different people specialize in making parts of a product (e.g., shoes or cars). This creates interdependence between workers and regions. 2 Henry Ford’s Model: Initially, cars were fully made in one factory. Later, parts were produced in different locations to reduce costs (e.g., due to cheaper labor or materials). 3 Globalization Today: Production now crosses borders. This is possible due to advanced communication technologies. Global Economy Over Time 1 13th Century: Multipolar World: Key trading centers included China, India, Italy, and Iraq. Decentralized Trade: Regions traded loosely but were interconnected. 2 15th Century: Monopolar World: Power shifted to European empires (Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, French, British). Science & Technology: Advanced weapons allowed these empires to dominate regions like Africa and Southeast Asia (e.g., Malacca). Colonization: Colonies provided raw materials (e.g. , cotton, rubber, tin). Colonizers used these materials to produce goods, which they sold back to the colonies. Colonial Control 1 Military Force: Used brute strength to suppress resistance. 2 Co-Opting Local Elites: Educated local elites in Western ways and gave them administrative roles. This reduced the likelihood of rebellion. 3 Divide and Conquer: Created divisions among local communities to prevent unity. 4 Communication Control: Centralized systems (e.g., London-centric telegraph networks) ensured colonized regions remained dependent on the colonizers. Modern Global Media Flows 1 U.S. Dominance: The U.S. is now the cultural and economic center of the world. Its media (e.g., TV programs) heavily influences other countries. 2 Concerns: Newly independent nations worry about losing their culture due to U.S. influence. Countries like Canada and France also share this concern. 3 Requests for NWIO: Some countries wanted a "New World Information Order" to ensure fairness in global media. However, the U.S. opposed this, citing its First Amendment (freedom of speech). Transborder Data Flows (TDF) 1 What It Is: The free movement of information across borders using modern technology. Computers communicate directly, creating a global network. 2 Impacts: Helps multinational companies like those headquartered in the U.S. manage operations worldwide. Encourages global trade and labor division, increasing interdependence. 3 Concerns: Creates permanent dependency for poorer countries. Undermines local authorities and industries.  Even powerful countries like the U.S. sometimes suffer from outsourcing (e.g., Levi’s jeans made in China). The notes discuss how global economic systems and communication technologies have evolved over time and their consequences. Here's the main idea: Key Message 1 From Local to Global: In the past, people relied on local production and trade was limited. Over time, economic systems became more interconnected through colonization, globalization, and technological advances. 2 Colonial Influence: European empires used colonization to extract raw materials, dominate local economies, and control trade routes. They created dependencies that still affect many former colonies. 3 Modern Globalization: Today’s economy is highly interdependent, driven by global trade, specialization, and communication technologies. Production often crosses borders to lower costs, but this creates inequalities. 4 Cultural and Economic Imperialism: The U.S. now dominates the global economy and media, influencing other cultures through its products, media, and technology. This one-sided influence raises concerns about cultural loss and dependency. 5 Concerns About Dependency: Poorer countries often depend on richer nations for technology, capital, and markets, creating permanent economic imbalances. What They Are Saying: Economic and technological changes create both opportunities (efficiency, innovation) and challenges (inequality, dependency). Globalization and modern communication have made the world interconnected, but this interconnection often favors richer, more powerful nations at the expense of poorer ones. week 4 theories 1. Early Theories of Communication Claude Henri de Saint Simon: Compared society to a living organism. Roads, canals, railways (infrastructure) = arteries for distributing resources. Banks (credit system) = the heart circulating money. Communication (telegraphs, newspapers) = nervous system spreading information. Modern society became more connected, with specialized roles and interdependent systems. 2. The Role of Propaganda and Media in the 20th Century World War I: Governments manipulated public opinion using propaganda. Post-World War II: Media technologies like radio and television grew. Media became part of a global system tied to economic and political structures. 3. Modernization Theory (Cold War Era) Key Idea: Spread Western values and economic systems to developing nations. Mass media was seen as a way to modernize traditional societies. Exposure to modern ideas (through media) would change traditional lifestyles. Example: Studies in countries like Turkey and Egypt showed media helped people aspire to modern ways of life. Criticism: Modernization mostly benefited Western countries. It ignored local needs, increased inequality, and made developing nations dependent on the West. 4. Dependency Theory Emerged in the 1960s-70s in Latin America. Key Idea: Rich nations (and their companies) dominate poor nations by controlling trade, resources, and labor. Developing countries became dependent on Western nations, reinforcing inequality. Media and communication systems also played a role in creating this dependency. 5. Cultural Imperialism Herbert Schiller's View: Western (mainly U.S.) corporations controlled global media, spreading American culture and values. This undermined the cultural independence of developing countries. Media's Role: Promoted consumerism and the “American way of life.” Helped U.S. maintain global dominance during the Cold War. Criticism: Oversimplified local cultures, ignoring their diversity. Overlooked how local elites in developing nations helped sustain Western influence. 6. Structural Imperialism Johan Galtung's Idea: Global relationships are unequal and work like a hierarchy: Developed nations (center) dominate developing nations (periphery). Even within a developing nation, elites are closer to the center while the poor remain in the periphery. Impact: Flow of information and economic activities benefits the center, while the periphery stays dependent. 7. Media Imperialism (1970s) Key Idea: Media in developing nations is heavily influenced by Western countries. Ownership, content, and distribution are controlled by powerful nations. Local media has little influence on global narratives. Criticism: Simplistic view of developing nations’ cultures. Ignored the role of local elites and internal diversities in shaping media. 8. Hegemony Antonio Gramsci's View: Dominant groups in society maintain power not just through force, but by shaping cultural norms and ideas. Institutions like schools, media, and religion spread the ruling class’s values. Result: People accept inequalities as normal, reducing resistance to the ruling class. 9. Critical Theory Focused on how culture becomes a commodity in capitalist systems. Media sells cultural products (like movies or ads) that promote passive behavior and maintain power structures. Criticism: Media marginalizes ideas that don’t fit market values. 10. The Public Sphere Ideal: A space where citizens can debate freely and form opinions without interference from the government or businesses. Reality: Business interests and political lobbying have undermined the public sphere. Media often reflects the interests of powerful groups rather than serving as a platform for genuine debate. week 5 tnmc and tnc 1. What Are TNCs (Transnational Corporations)? Definition: A TNC is a large company that operates in multiple countries. It owns or controls production, trade, or services in several nations beyond its home country. Key Features: 1 Global Operations: Operate factories, offices, or branches worldwide (e.g., Nike, Apple). 2 Profit Maximization: Use global resources to lower costs (e.g., cheaper labor or raw materials in developing countries). 3 Control and Power: TNCs often influence trade, labor policies, and economies in host countries. Example: Levi’s manufactures jeans in China for cost efficiency but sells them globally. Impact: 1 Economic Dependency: Developing countries rely on TNCs for jobs and investments. 2 Unequal Power: TNCs set terms for global trade and production, often benefiting themselves over local economies. 2. What Are TNMCs (Transnational Media Corporations)? Definition: TNMCs are a type of TNC specializing in media, entertainment, and communication. They control the production and distribution of cultural content globally. Key Features: 1 Media Domination: Control film, television, news, music, and social media industries. 2 Global Reach: Distribute their content worldwide, shaping how people think, consume, and act. 3 Western Influence: Most TNMCs originate from the U.S. or Europe, spreading Western culture and values. Example: Disney operates globally, influencing children’s media while promoting Western ideals. Impact: 1 Cultural Imperialism: TNMCs dominate cultural narratives, sidelining local traditions. 2 Dependency: Developing countries rely on TNMCs for media content and infrastructure. 3 Homogenization: Leads to a loss of cultural diversity as Western lifestyles become aspirational. 3. Why Are TNCs and TNMCs Important in Communication Theories? Dependency Theory: TNCs and TNMCs create an unequal relationship where developing nations depend on developed nations. Economic Dependency: Developing countries provide cheap labor and raw materials while TNCs control profits. Cultural Dependency: TNMCs control what media is produced, shaping global culture to reflect Western values. Cultural Imperialism: TNMCs are key players in spreading Western culture globally. They promote consumerism and capitalism through advertisements, movies, and shows. Example: Hollywood movies dominate global box offices, often marginalizing local cinema. Globalization: TNCs and TNMCs benefit from globalization, operating without strict borders. Their influence drives global trade and cultural exchange but can deepen inequalities. 4. Criticisms of TNCs and TNMCs 1 Economic Exploitation: TNCs exploit cheap labor in developing countries, often under poor working conditions. They extract resources without investing in local development. 2 Cultural Erosion: TNMCs dominate global media, leading to cultural homogenization (e.g., local cultures replaced by Western ideals). 3 Unequal Power: TNCs and TNMCs hold more power than some governments, influencing policies to suit their interests. 4 Dependency and Inequality: Developing nations rely on TNCs and TNMCs for jobs, media, and technology, creating a cycle of dependency. 5. Examples of TNCs and TNMCs in Action TNCs: Apple: Designs in the U.S., manufactures in Asia, sells globally. Unilever: Uses raw materials from developing countries to produce goods sold worldwide. TNMCs: Disney: Creates movies, shows, and theme parks influencing global entertainment. CNN: A U.S.-based news network with worldwide reach, shaping international opinions. Summary TNCs: Control global trade and production, creating economic dependencies. TNMCs: Dominate cultural content, spreading Western values and marginalizing local cultures. Both are powerful players in globalization, but their influence raises concerns about inequality and cultural imperialism. week 7 issues of international communications Politics of Global Communication: 1 Endangered Journalism: The safety of journalists is a major concern in many regions due to threats like kidnapping, torture, and even death, which undermine independent reporting, especially on political, military, and economic issues. 2 Surveillance and Privacy: Advances in surveillance technology, paired with laws that infringe on privacy rights, are a growing global issue. Governments and private companies are often involved in mass data collection and surveillance, raising concerns about privacy breaches. 3 Media Control: The concentration of media power is another major issue. A handful of large corporations, such as Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Alphabet, and Microsoft, control much of the communication infrastructure and have significant influence over global communication. 4 Internet Freedom and Censorship: The issue of censorship arises in efforts to protect copyright, such as the European Parliament's 2018 decision to mandate filters on copyrighted material. Critics argue this could infringe on free speech and lead to censorship. 5 Lack of Effective Platforms for Global Communication: The international community struggles with managing issues related to global communication due to the lack of adequate platforms for cooperation. The UN, which should act as a platform for managing global communication, is often hindered by the self-interest of states and their desire to maintain control over their own political and economic systems. The State vs. Nation Issue: The distinction between "states" and "nations" highlights the limitations of the UN. While states are political entities with the power to enforce laws, nations refer to groups of people with a common heritage and cultural understanding. The UN, primarily a forum for states, often fails to address the concerns of nations and marginalized groups, thus limiting its effectiveness in managing global communication. Core Domains of International Communication: 1 Telecommunication: The global development of telecommunication has been marked by efforts to standardize communication norms, starting with the establishment of organizations like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). These organizations have worked to protect the secrecy of communication and regulate cross-border communications. 2 Intellectual Property Rights: The protection of intellectual property (IP) is essential to safeguard creators' works, but it also raises questions about access to information and the flow of knowledge across borders. Treaties such as the Berne Convention seek to protect creators' rights internationally, but can lead to disputes over access to cultural and intellectual resources. 3 Mass Media: Mass media has been a source of global concern, particularly with the spread of harmful content, propaganda, and unethical practices. International agreements like the 1924 International Convention aimed to prevent the distribution of obscene materials across borders. Key Challenges in International Communication: 1 Language Barriers: The inability to speak a common language can hinder understanding and create communication breakdowns in international settings. 2 Cultural Differences: Cultural norms, values, and customs differ widely across regions, which can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations during communication. 3 Technology Issues: Communication technologies, including internet access and software compatibility, can create significant challenges, especially when infrastructure is lacking or unreliable in certain areas. 4 Political and Legal Differences: National laws, political structures, and governance systems often vary, which can complicate international communication and exchange. 5 Stereotypes and Prejudices: Misconceptions about different countries and cultures can distort communication, leading to misunderstandings and even discrimination. 6 Nonverbal Communication: Different cultures have varying interpretations of nonverbal cues, such as body language, gestures, and facial expressions, which can lead to misinterpretations. Political Issues in International Communication: Censorship and Surveillance: Governments often censor information and monitor communications to control public discourse or for national security reasons, affecting the free flow of information. Cybersecurity and Data Protection: The increase in digital communication has raised concerns about cybersecurity and the protection of sensitive data from breaches and cyberattacks. Internet Governance: Different countries have competing interests in how the internet should be regulated, which complicates the development of global standards. Digital Divide: Access to the internet and digital technologies is unequal globally, with many developing countries facing significant barriers in terms of infrastructure and affordability. Net Neutrality: The debate over net neutrality, which advocates for equal access to all internet data, is a contentious issue, particularly as large companies seek to control access to online services. Intellectual Property: The protection of IP across borders can create tensions between countries, especially when enforcement of IP laws conflicts with access to knowledge and information. International Conflicts: Political conflicts between nations often lead to communication blockages or the use of propaganda, which can distort the flow of information and affect international relations. Economic Issues in International Communication: 1 Currency Exchange and Trade Barriers: Fluctuating currency exchange rates and tariffs can complicate communication in business contexts, making international transactions more costly. 2 Business Practices: Differences in business practices, regulations, and legal frameworks between countries can affect the ease of conducting international business and communicating effectively. 3 Infrastructure and Connectivity: Poor infrastructure and limited connectivity in some parts of the world can hinder effective communication between countries, especially in rural or less-developed areas. 4 Access to Capital: Limited access to financial resources in certain regions can prevent businesses from expanding and engaging in international communication and trade. Social Issues in International Communication: 1 Cultural Differences and Stereotyping: Misunderstandings based on cultural differences or stereotypes can hinder effective communication, particularly in multicultural settings. 2 Power Imbalances: Economic, political, or social power imbalances between nations or within international organizations can lead to inequities in communication, perpetuating discrimination or exploitation. 3 Ethical Concerns: Ethical issues related to privacy, intellectual property, and human rights can create tension in international communication, as different countries have varying ethical standards. week 8 the role of global communications The Role of International Communication International communication plays a critical role in fostering global cooperation, mutual respect, and understanding. By enabling the exchange of information, ideas, and cultures, it helps to build relationships and resolve conflicts. Here's how it contributes to global harmony: 1 Promoting Cooperation & Understanding: International communication facilitates the exchange of diplomatic negotiations, trade, and humanitarian aid, fostering mutual respect between nations. 2 Supporting International Organizations: Bodies like the United Nations (UN), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the International Criminal Court (ICC) play vital roles in promoting global dialogue and cooperation. 3 Cross-Cultural Dialogue: Funding for cultural exchanges, language programs, and media initiatives supports global understanding and diverse perspectives. 4 Conflict Resolution: By facilitating diplomatic efforts, international communication helps resolve disputes and tensions, promoting peace through dialogue and mediation. Privatization of Telecommunication Privatization has liberalized global communication by reducing state control over telecommunication infrastructures. Two examples of this are: 1 Rupert Murdoch: Through his media conglomerate News Corporation, Murdoch helped expand global media reach, including satellite TV and digital platforms, increasing accessibility to information. 2 Intelsat: Once a government-run service, Intelsat was privatized to offer satellite communications globally, making it easier for businesses and governments to connect worldwide. The liberalization has allowed for faster technological advances, lower costs, and more services, benefiting the global community. Globalization of Media and its Implications Globalization has had a profound impact on media cultures. Some key effects include: One-Way Flow of Information: Media from powerful countries, like the U.S. , dominate global platforms, shaping other nations’ media landscapes. For example, MTV and children’s TV channels are widely consumed worldwide. Cultural Impacts: National and regional cultures may struggle to maintain their identity as foreign content dominates, diluting local media traditions. Contraflow in Global Media Contraflow refers to the movement of media content from the Global South (developing countries) to the North. Examples include: MBC (Middle East) or TV Globo (Brazil) offering content that attracts international audiences, including those in Western nations. Indian film industry: Bollywood has gained global recognition, influencing global cinema. This flow challenges the dominance of Western media, enriching global media with diverse cultural perspectives. UN’s Controversial Failures The UN has faced criticism for its limited progress on several global issues: 1 Conflicts: The UN has struggled to resolve significant global conflicts, such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Kashmir dispute, and civil wars in Somalia and Rwanda. 2 Humanitarian Issues: Despite efforts, there’s been insufficient progress on poverty, hunger, and climate change. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights Criticism of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights includes: 1 Eurocentric: It reflects Western values and may overlook non-Western cultural perspectives. 2 Male-Dominated: Critics argue that it doesn't adequately address women's rights or gender equality. 3 Exclusion of Minorities: Groups such as indigenous people and other marginalized communities feel their rights are underrepresented or ignored. In summary, while international communication plays a significant role in promoting global cooperation, the systems in place (such as the UN) often struggle to address key issues effectively. week 9 and 10 International Communication, Culture and Technology globalisation 1. Globalization and Its Impact on Culture Globalization influences how cultures evolve and interact. There are two opposing perspectives on its effects: Globalophobes (Critics): Believe globalization harms local cultures by imposing global media and values. Argue that people lose their unique cultural identities because they are exposed to the same global content, leaving little room for local representation. Example: Many countries fear Western media like Hollywood is making their traditions irrelevant. Globalophiles (Supporters): Celebrate globalization for encouraging cultural diversity. Argue that global trade and media create opportunities for local industries to thrive. Example: Countries producing content for global audiences (e.g., Korean dramas gaining popularity worldwide). 2. Cultural Blending (Hybridity and Glocalization) Key Idea: Globalization does not always replace local culture; instead, it mixes global and local influences to create something new. This process is called hybridization or glocalization. Examples:  Hollywood movies adapted with local themes in Hong Kong or India. Global music genres like K-pop in the U.S. or Afro-pop in Europe. The blending creates complex cultural identities with elements of both tradition and modernity. 3. Global Media Flows Media and culture are no longer bound by nation-states. Instead, there are complex flows of media products across borders: Disjunctures in Flow: Media, money, technology, and people move across countries in irregular patterns. Example: A Korean drama becoming popular in Japan (Korean Wave or Hallyu), reversing the historic one-way cultural flow from Japan to Korea. Multiple Flows: Media imperialism (one-way domination) is no longer the only model. Example: Turkish dramas being widely consumed in the Middle East and Balkans. 4. New Media and Global Cultures Technologies That Shape Globalization: Platforms like Netflix, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter allow people worldwide to share and consume content. Example: Korean pop stars using YouTube to reach fans globally, bypassing traditional media. Challenges of Saturation: Modern lives are saturated with media (e.g., emails, social media, streaming platforms). This constant exposure creates new ethical, social, and psychological challenges. 5. Relationship Between Globalization and Technology Technological Determinism: This theory argues that technology drives societal and cultural changes. Hyperglobalists believe globalization became inevitable because of advances like the Internet, satellites, and mobile phones. Criticisms of Technological Determinism: Over-simplifies society by focusing too much on technology. Ignores the role of humans, social movements, and diverse uses of technology in shaping culture. Alternative View (Raymond Williams): Believes changes in communication are influenced by a mix of innovations and the society they emerge in, rather than technology alone. 6. Ethnocentrism and Eurocentrism Ethnocentrism: Viewing the world from your own culture’s perspective, often judging others as inferior. Leads to: 1 Misunderstanding other cultures. 2 Prejudice, including racism and nationalism. Eurocentrism: The belief that European culture is superior to others. Linked to colonialism, where European values dominated and dismissed non-European cultures. 7. A Critical Approach to Globalization Benefits: Promotes cultural exchange and diversity. Provides platforms for marginalized voices (e.g., independent creators on social media). Challenges: Media saturation can overwhelm and homogenize cultures. Unequal power dynamics may still benefit wealthier nations, echoing past imperialism. Summary Globalization connects the world through trade, technology, and media, leading to both cultural exchange and tension. While some celebrate the diversity it brings, others criticize it for undermining local identities. The key takeaway is that globalization creates a mix of resistance and adaptation, resulting in hybrid cultures where tradition and modernity coexist. week 11 The Future of International Communication in the Digital Age 1.Global Movements and Digital Tools Women’s March (2017): Organized through social media, showing the power of the internet in bringing people together worldwide. Highlighted global frustration about gender inequality and women’s rights. Demonstrated how digital tools can amplify marginalized voices. Social Media Activism: Movements like #MeToo and #TimesUp use platforms like Twitter to address sexual harassment and inequality. These movements showcase how online campaigns can create global awareness and push for accountability. 2. Identity and Media Representation Negotiating Identity: Media representation shapes how individuals and groups are perceived. People must examine how media reflects their identities and whether it reinforces stereotypes or "otherness." Intersectionality: Identities often overlap, such as race, gender, religion, and nationality. The media can influence how these identities are seen and which ones are given priority in public discourse. 3. Media Power Structures Privilege in Media: Media tends to favor groups with more privilege (e.g., male, white, heterosexual). Marginalized groups are often underrepresented or portrayed negatively. Cultural Studies: Media is a tool of power that reinforces societal norms and hierarchies. Representation often aligns with existing power dynamics, making it hard for minorities to have a fair voice. 4. Feminism and Media in the Digital Age Fourth Wave Feminism: Focuses on using digital platforms to address issues like domestic violence, sexual assault, and inequality. Social media mobilizes large groups for protests and raises awareness about injustices. Challenging Stereotypes: Feminists use media to counter negative portrayals and fight for equality across gender, race, class, and sexuality. 5. Storytelling in Digital Communication Humans as Storytellers: Digital communication revolves around sharing stories—ideas, opinions, and data. Journalists and media professionals play a significant role in interpreting and shaping these narratives. Representation of Events: The way stories are told impacts how marginalized communities are viewed. Digital platforms have made storytelling more inclusive but still face challenges of bias. 6. Future Challenges and Opportunities Digital Inclusion: Ensuring that all communities, especially marginalized ones, have access to digital tools is essential. The digital divide (inequality in access to technology) needs to be addressed to ensure fair participation. Evolving Identity: As global communication grows, people will need to balance cultural, national, and individual identities. Media must represent diverse perspectives fairly to avoid reinforcing power imbalances. 7. Role of Technology Digital tools like social media, podcasts, and blogs allow anyone to contribute to global conversations. Future international communication will depend on adapting technology to promote inclusivity and equality.