The medium is the message
Monday, February 15, 2010 |
posted by Sue Heuman |
"The medium is the message"
Marshall McLuhan uttered those famous words in 1964, and although much has changed, this dictum remains true (perhaps even more relevant) today.
Mr. McLuhan was indeed a visionary. He understood that the way in which a message is delivered is as important as the message itself. As social media opens up ever-expanding platforms and technology, his words are prophetic, indeed.
But beyond those famous words, Mr. McLuhan also said, “The new electronic interdependence recreates the world in the image of a global village” (1962). Hard to believe that was nearly 50 years ago! He died in 1980, so he didn’t have the chance to experience the full realization of his words through platforms like Twitter and Facebook, and technology such as iPad and Blackberry.
If he were alive today, I wonder what he would say about the incredible opportunities that we now enjoy to connect with friends and strangers alike; at home, work or on a city street. What message is the new medium telling us?
We are more connected now than at any stage in human existence. We “meet” people through tweets; discuss ideas and opinions through blogs. We answer online polls and contribute comments through a range of forums.
We can agree, or disagree, on every topic imaginable. If social media is the new medium, I believe the new message is connectedness.
What do you think Marshall McLuhan would say today? I welcome your thoughts.
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