Pre modern society refers to the social world incorporating face to face interactions, communication was a direct experience for individuals. Modern society refers to a predominantly industrialised society where media and texts are large part of our culture and communication, instead of verbal communication we know about the world through media forms, this includes maps, books, newspaper, radio, TV, video etc. The modern society has really expanded our knowledge and way of communication about the ongoings in the world and the interaction between others.
However this change in communication through the incorporation of new media forms in our society has sparked some debate on whether interaction through media gives a meaningful social experience or whether it has just diminished it.
For me i’m sitting very much on the fence, in certain aspects I think communication such as texting and Facebook messenger are worthwhile however I think its hard to properly compare to the real face to face interactions. Yes, an emoji can verbalise the emotion your feeling but a real connection involving body language and tone of voice I think gives a much more honest and real interaction. More often than not online communication can become misconstrued and can seem quite impersonal, whereas these problems rarely occur during face to face interaction because you can physically interact. However I also see the huge benefits of texting, Facebook messenger and likewise apps, it can give an immediate, often quick and efficient form of communication. This can be super convenient from wanting a quick chat and advice to calling the ambulance for help. Similarly it is the basis of a good platform for individuals to communicate when separated by distance. I still communicate with friends and family from England via Facebook and calls and without this platform I wouldn’t know how they are unless I physically visited them which very rarely occurs.
Other uses of media such as the news and newspapers I think are important to give awareness and information to the public about the ongoings of the world and events that are occurring. Without these forms of information we wouldn’t know about political issues, environmental issues, and in general the positive and negative things that occur on a day to day basis. Things like fire warnings and weather are hugely beneficial as individuals will get a call, text, tv instruction, Facebook or twitter warning. With other issues however there is a risk that this information we are being fed is false or slightly re shaped, the media, as we know are well known for spinning stories, taking comments and readjusting the meaning. In comparison to face to face interaction which for world issues the public would probably be unaware of anything unless things happen close to their area.
Entertainment is also a huge benefit, music, TV, radio, movies, social media, are all new and exciting forms of entertainment. Whilst sometimes this can be overused and at times can isolate an individual from the outside world, in general moderation it can be a really fun and interesting tool.