With the advent of this interconnected world the antiquated methods of communication have become obsolete. When groups of people can exchange ideas half a world away using a postal service to send messages seems redundant. The digital world has become the crucible where human communication is done for a variety of reasons and thus its ascension has resulted in the emergence a form of digital rhetoric found in digital literacy.
In Digital Rhetoric: Theory, Method, Practice, by Douglas Eyman, digital lit is described be an environment that has reshaped communication. Digital literacy is not the same as what people read on books or advertisement, but rather a domain of online persuasion. He observes the architecture of the platform, how unseen code influence the transmission, presentation, and intent of a message.
This awareness is important because all forms of rhetoric engages with you based on selling people on an idea. Knowing the difference can mean the difference between being a passive consumer or a more cautious internet user. One who can recognize how digital content is attempting to persuade and influence through directed intent.
The world of today is interconnected in unimaginable ways through code and idea. In understanding the power of this digital ecosystem it becomes possible for a user to navigate it objectively and safely.
In the end only an awareness of the digital world can determine how people are influenced by online content. This awareness can result in becoming aware of the intent behind a message or ignorance as to what you are being exposed to.
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