The Cultural Impact of Communication Technology

Communication technology has played a large role in the advancement of culture and society. Communication technology includes electronic devices and media, such as radio, television, telephone and internet.

Culture

Random House's American Dictionary defines culture as "artistic and intellectual pursuit." Communication technology has made national and international impacts on culture.

History

Communication technology was a crucial part of the Cultural Revolution which began in the 1960s. Radio and television played an instrumental role in historical events such as the Vietnam War and Cold War.

Significance

Racial and gender movements for equality benefited greatly from communication technology. Television helped to spread the message of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Women's Liberation movement.

Changes in Culture

As electronic communication grew more widespread, it had a democratizing effect on society at large. High culture, such as classical music, gave way to mass culture, giving birth to new musical genres, such as jazz and rock and roll.

Digital Divide

The so-called Digital Divide is one of the biggest international concerns created by the advancement of communication technology. Because developing nations don't have the vast resources of advanced countries, there is a fear that poorer countries won't be able to keep up economically, socially or culturally.

References

• Random House Webster's American Dictionary; 4th ed.; 2001
• Tech ICT
• University of Michigan