The Sociology of New Media

Module code: MS7055

Module Outline

This module analyses theories and debates about the impact of new media on society. Students will develop a comprehension of the most important sociological theories of new media and will engage critically with key theorists and the related debates that surround new media and society. The module focuses on theories concerning the network society (Castells), networked individualism (Wellman), online public sphere (Habermas), diasporas and global communities (Miller), new media and democratisation (Coleman and Morozov), as well as virtual identity and virtual communities (Turkle and Rheingold). Students are encouraged to consider which theory best reflects the contemporary situation and engage in discussions of related phenomena and issues of our time.