Dr. Djuwari
In Philippines, we have the Philippines arena, the world’s largest indoor arena, a multipurpose indoor arena with a maximum seating capacity of 55,000 at Ciudad de Victoria. In Indonesia, we also have the Indonesia arena, a multipurpose indoor arena at the Gelora Bung Karno arena, in Jakarta. Now we have eye-witnessed some sport activities around the world and they can also lead to the cultural exchange easily.
People everywhere can see all the activities organized in those arenas through digital connection. All can go global with these arenas. Not only can football sport go global, volleyball sport can also go global. These sport activities indirectly can exchange the cultures among the participants. All can be seen through digital communication. Globally, this digital communication can connect cultures and empower individuals.
Digital communication has transformed the way individuals interact, businesses operate, and societies function on a global scale. With the internet and the proliferation of social media platforms, the world has become more interconnected than ever before. Now, let’s try to explore the impact of digital communication in shaping our global society, emphasizing its role in connecting diverse cultures and empowering individuals.
When talking about connecting cultures, we can deal with the most significant benefits of digital communication. It is the ability to bridge geographical and cultural barriers. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram enable people from different corners of the world to connect instantaneously. They can also facilitate the exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives. This interconnectedness has fostered cultural understanding and appreciation. For example, people can engage in cross-cultural dialogues and share insights into their respective lifestyles and traditions. To be honest, we have enjoyed this phenomenon very much.
Moreover, digital communication has democratized access to information. With this, individuals can learn about different cultures and societies with a simple click. For example, the online platforms serve as virtual windows to the world, providing users with a wealth of diverse content. These include articles, videos, and blogs, authored by people from various cultural backgrounds. This exposure not only promotes cultural literacy but also challenges stereotypes and prejudices, fostering a more inclusive global community.
In addition to connecting cultures, digital communication empowers individuals by giving them a voice on a global stage. Social media activism, for example, has emerged as a powerful tool for advocating social change and raising awareness about pressing issues. Movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo have gained momentum through online platforms, mobilizing millions of people worldwide and catalyzing real-world action.
Furthermore, digital communication has democratized the dissemination of knowledge and expertise, enabling individuals to participate in online learning communities and skill-sharing platforms. Websites such as Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer free or affordable courses on a wide range of subjects, empowering people to acquire new skills and advance their careers irrespective of their geographical location or socioeconomic background.
Moreover, the rise of remote work and freelancing opportunities facilitated by digital communication has enabled individuals to break free from traditional employment structures and pursue flexible lifestyles. Platforms like Upwork and Freelancer connect employers with freelancers across the globe. They can provide opportunities for remote collaboration and economic empowerment.
Digital communication has revolutionized the way we connect, communicate, and collaborate in our global society. It can also make us appreciate each other, laying the foundation for a more inclusive and interconnected world. We can also get the potential to drive positive social change and promote economic empowerment on a global scale. However, with the digital landscape, it is imperative to harness the power of digital communication responsibly and ethically, ensuring that it remains a force for good in our increasingly interconnected world.
Dr. Djuwari is an Associate Professor at Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Surabaya (UNUSA) Indonesia. Surabaya, the editor of some research journals in the Philippines and Indonesia. He is also a journalist in some newspapers in Indonesia; the President of International Association of Scholarly Publishers, Editors, and Reviewers (IASPER), a small business owner of Djuw Café.
