Networks of Communication in South Africa: New Media, New Technologies

South Africa has made remarkable progress in the adoption of mobile and Internet technologies, and this book examines the development of communication patterns, social contacts, and networks in the country. It analyzes trends in changing media use and how people use the media for communication purposes that affirm or break their social contacts and networks.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 300 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

South Africa has achieved remarkable strides in the rapid adoption of mobile and Internet technologies. In this groundbreaking study, R. Sooryamoorthy delves into the evolution of communication patterns, social connections, and networks in South Africa. Drawing upon pioneering quantitative and qualitative data, he conducts an in-depth analysis of the shifting media usage trends across Africa. Through his comprehensive examination, he unveils the growing adoption of new media for communication among South Africans of diverse ages, races, and genders, in conjunction with the development of media infrastructure, its associated costs, and government policies. This insightful work sheds light on how individuals utilize the media to shape, strengthen, or disrupt their social networks and connections, as well as how they employ media to establish, rekindle, or sustain social relationships. This book holds immense value for researchers exploring the growth of communication technology in Africa, as well as for those engaged in the broader domains of development studies and economics.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316636572