Sociologists have observed that culture never stands still, and that both non-ma

Question

Sociologists have observed that culture never stands still, and that both non-material and material elements of a culture change. Technology affects our interactions with one another and the norms that govern behavior. In the class, we have discussed this topic in terms of how we assess other individuals through body language, eye contact, and appearance. Using cell phones, e-mail, and other technology, describe how these technologies have changed the ways in which we interact with others. What is lost and what is gained when we interact indirectly using technology? What are the informal rules that govern interaction through these media? Ae these rules different than the rules that govern person-to-person interaction? If so, how?  

Explanation / Answer

Culture is influenced by information, trends, interactions, etc. Example: Modern education system's global approach may influence particular culture by new rational thinking and behaviors. Communication involves interaction between people and circulation of information. We can classify communication as direct and indirect. In direct communication, people interact with each other in person with language and gestures. In indirect communication, people involved in communication process use media other than in person conversation like mails, telephone calls, etc.

With new emerging technologies, our communication has witnessed transformation from conventional ways of interaction (both direct and indirect) to new technology enabled interaction. We can observe not only indirect communication adapting technology (mobile phones, internet chatting, e-mails) but also direct communication also influenced by technology (usage of electronic pointer device instead of formal stick).

Given below are some notable changes in our interaction due to new technology adaption:

1. Usage of technology enabled mobile phones enable people to not only have voice conversation but also can have text conversation with even facility to express emotions. This will allow people to have conversation wherever they are without hindering their privacy. This has replaced formal letter writing with pen and paper.

2. Before these new technologies, the interaction limited to individuals in particular society and reach is almost limited regionally. New technology enabled communication system has made whole world as global village and reach is without boundary. This has helped in cultural mix and harmony.

3. Earlier, interaction was limited within region and regional influence on communication like language and perception of bodily gestures are linked to regional context. Now due to technology, communication is without boundary and even without language barrier. Using technology, new social media platform contributing to sharing global culture and heritages.

Now let us consider what are benefits and disadvantages of interacting with new technology enabled media. The major benefit is communication in real time. Any emergency message or news can be conveyed easily in time to intended people without much struggle. Delay in communication due to distance is now not an issue. Disadvantage of this technology in communication is more unnecessary conversation or interaction may take place between people (like chatting unnecessarily or only for time pass) and waste of time may be observed.

The informal rules govern interaction through technology enabled media are e-mail and text etiquettes and discipline. These rules are similar to previous indirect communications like writing letters or talking over phone. These rules differ from rules of person-to-person conversation with regard usage of formal language, etiquettes to be followed according to place, etc.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse S
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.