ABSTRACT

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines which new anthropological and cultural-historical conditions and changes arise in connection with the widespread presence of digital media in the lives of the networked teens. It reveals not only those digital technologies have become a steadfast part of the lives of youths, but also that herein lies significant potential for their upbringing and education. Without adopting too quickly an either cyber-utopian or cyber-critical position, in two case studies, our research demonstrates the pedagogic potential of digital media to achieve inclusive and quality education for all. The book demonstrates how views and opinions circulate between YouTube, Facebook, and traditional media such as TV or newspapers with regard to corruption, gender-related violence, and beauty ideals. It evaluates inter-channel and cross-media differences by mapping the number and frequency of daily references to certain news items and their reception.