Global Digital Cultures: Perspectives from South Asia

Digital media histories are part of a global network, and South Asia is a key nexus in shaping the trajectory of digital media in the twenty-first century. This book explores the intersections of local, national, regional, and global forces that shape contemporary digital culture(s) in regions like South Asia, focusing on enduring concerns of representation, identity, and power while grappling with algorithmic curation and data-driven processes of production, circulation, and consumption.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2019
Publisher: The University of Michigan Press

Digital media histories are intricately intertwined with a global network, and South Asia emerges as a pivotal region in shaping the trajectory of digital media in the twenty-first century. Platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and others have become deeply ingrained in the daily routines of millions worldwide, profoundly influencing how individuals interact with others in various roles, including family, citizenship, and consumerism. This book delves into the intricate intersections of local, national, regional, and global forces that shape contemporary digital cultures in regions like South Asia. It explores the rise of digital and mobile media technologies, the ongoing transformation of established media industries, and the emergence of novel forms of digital media practice and usage that are reshaping sociocultural, political, and economic landscapes across the Indian subcontinent.

The essays in this collection transcend traditional Anglo-American and national frameworks, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of contemporary digital culture. They examine topics such as the proliferation of digital and mobile media, the ongoing metamorphosis of traditional media sectors, and the emergence of new modes of digital media practice and consumption. From state-driven digital identity projects and YouTube censorship to the impact of Tinder and dating culture, from Twitter and primetime television to Facebook and political rumors, Global Digital Cultures delves into enduring concerns of representation, identity, and power while grappling with algorithmic curation and data-driven processes of production, circulation, and consumption.

By examining these diverse aspects, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that shape digital culture in South Asia and beyond. It sheds light on the ways in which technology, politics, society, and economics intertwine, leading to the emergence of new forms of representation, identity, and power. It also highlights the challenges and opportunities that arise from these developments, as individuals, communities, and societies navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In conclusion, Digital Media Histories and South Asia serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and policymakers interested in understanding the evolving nature of digital media in the twenty-first century. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of digital culture, providing insights into the complex interplay of local, national, regional, and global forces that shape contemporary digital practices and experiences. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, this book will remain an essential reference point for those seeking to navigate the complexities and opportunities of this rapidly changing world.

Weight: 595g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780472131402