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The idea of democratizing technology and of technology changing democracy is in front of us each day. Very real events make the SAL U Storyteller Uprising lecture series more than apropos—this study is an opportunity to understand a shift in communication and citizenship, and David Domke, UofW Communication Dept. Head, framed a broad, historical perspective for his lecture at Kane Hall.

Bringing to the table Marshall McLuhan’s concepts from the Sixties, Domke examined communication channels, concepts in civic responsibility and how profitability skews information conduits. For instance, in the 1930’s there were only 5 or 6 major film studios—which remains unchanged today due to the daunting expenses of mass media production and distribution. The shift to powerful consumer controlled information channels appears to be writing a new story, crafted by a generation accustomed to a relational approach to daily life.

“We become what we behold. We shape our tools and then our tools shape us.” Marshall McLuhan

Next up for this open series:

MARCH 9: Kraig Baker
You Posted What on Facebook? Identifying and Managing Legal Risks in Social Media

MARCH 23: Scott Macklin
Building Organizational Capacity through Convening Community Stories

APRIL 6: Anita Verna Crofts
Let’s Do the Numbers: Metrics and Maturation of Digital Media in Emerging Markets.