Digital Culturist // Issue 4
December 4, 2016
In the fourth issue of Digital Culturist, discover an alternative analysis of selfie culture; a poetic exploration of the relationship between technology and depression; a argument for a more diverse filter bubble; a poem on identity exchange and more.
How Selfies Became My Tool For Empathy
By ERIN KIM
The defining factor here is my intention to take a photo with me in it; however, the point is not to take a photo of me, but of the moment.
I often oscillate between saying “selfie” versus “self-portrait.” I feel shy to say I take so many selfies because of the shallow, negative, self-absorbed connotation “selfies” have, whereas a “self-portrait” sounds artistic, professional. But I want to redefine the negative association with selfies through my story and positive relationship with the medium as an art form, and a reflective tool for self discovery.
A Failing Filament
By Jordan D
the good
fletcherizing on the past
shoved so deep below
forgotten dreariness replaced with
an enticing temptress
well-versed in distorted validation
The Case for a Filter Bubble Visa
We need to find ways to make it easier for people to ascend from their bubble, and join another bubble.
Crossing over to the other side does not preclude you from still interacting with your bubble-of-origin. It’s not like crossing the Rubicon. The Social Rubicon should be a gentle stream, where there’s no big undercurrent which pulls you to a waterfall, one where views from both ends of the riverbed coalesce and reinforce one another.
In Exchange
By Nick Britti
Cut conversations down to notifications, I guess that’s my cue to —
Wait a second… Hey Siri!
Who’s that guy from The Big Bang Theory?
Attention span gone to shit, information all random
How Might the Internet Democratise Democracy?
By Jon Barnes
This year we saw “democratic” decisions which shook the world. Trump, Sanders, Corbyn, Farage, Brexit. Contradictory and unexpected decisions. I see it as the sign of an antiquated system in desperate need of an overhaul to bring it into the 21st century. If Democracy were an Operating System, it would be in dire need of a update. Why so? This isn’t a conversation about getting rid of paper voting, it’s far broader and deeper than that. I don’t think this is about technology for technology’s sake though. Let me explain.
All stories curated and edited by Clayton d'Arnault
