Over the course of the semester, we discussed the different components of what defines digital diversity. We looked at everything from the internet to ethical dilemmas involving technology. When asked to give digital diversity a single definition, I found it difficult because digital diversity is made up of so many different elements, making it just that, diverse. Instead of giving a simple definition, I incorporated a majority of what we discussed in class, read and blogged about over the course of the semester.
To me, digital diversity includes everything we covered in class. From the evolution of the internet to the revolution of social networking, are lives are being influenced by technology more and more every day. Even in remote countries in Africa, people are more “connected” than ever with technologies such as mobile phone becoming readily available. Of course there is still what Charles Ess mentioned in his book Digital Media Ethics, a “digital divide,” but the immersion of technology on a global scale if creating a narrower gap between those who are information rich and information poor. Of course with this increase people using technology brings new ethical concerns. Issues such as copyright laws, online privacy, pornography, and violence and stereotyping in video games are just some of what becoming more “digital” has created. Also, actions such as dumping e-waste are adding even more fire to these ethical debates and people are having a hard time deciphering between what should be considered right and wrong. Ethical pluralism, however “provides the possibility of a global ethics made up of shared norms and values while preserving the essential differences that define diverse cultural identities” (Ess 54).
The definition of digital diversity is still evolving. Every day, a new component can be added to the ever expanding definition which includes all aspects of technology and how it affects human beings physically, mentally, emotionally, and ethically. Digital diversity has had and will continue to have a major impact on the world.
Works Cited
Blog
Digital Media Ethics by Charles Ess
Ghana: Digital Dumping Ground
RIP: a Remix Manifesto
The Young and the Digital by S. Craig Watkins
Video
Digital Media Ethics by Charles Ess
The Young and the Digital by S. Craig Watkins
ABC World News: Interview with Mark Zuckerberg http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vfTaAqmfS6A
RIP: a Remix Manifesto
Ghana: Digital Dumping Ground
Google Images
Music- Moby, Everlast, Damien Rice, Black Sabbath, Brother Ali, Citizen Cope