ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines one of the most common facets of digital culture: Taking and posting selfies on social media platforms. It analyzes the beliefs and assumptions behind certain selfie-taking practices. The book explores the allegations of narcissism leveled against selfie-takers, primarily women, who are often disciplined for taking too many selfies. It emphasizes the nuanced contexts in which selfies are taken, posted, liked, and commented upon. The book defines the need to treat selfies as a new visual language without judging selfie-taking practices based on our own perspectives and assumptions. The book describes the need to contextualize sexting practices and not merely focus on sensational cases of sexting gone wrong. It discusses the power of memes to start and sustain a conversation on a particular topic, especially in countries such as China which have severe restrictions on freedom of speech and expression.
