What Makes Online and Digital Media Different

Philosopher Marshall McLuhan argued that “the medium is the message,” and certain distinct features of digital media cast old concepts such as boundaries, privacy, and confidentiality in a new light. Digital media are easily accessible, mobile, and used globally across socioeconomic, demographic, and professional groups. They disseminate information with unprecedented speed and scope. Their content, unless protected by encryption or other devices, lacks confidentiality and security but is largely permanent. Our use of technology is not compartmentalized by place, time or audience (personal or professional). Textual content lacks nonverbal cues and is subject to misinterpretation. Finally, digital technologies change so rapidly, digital immigrants especially are constantly racing to keep up, and the rate of change out-paces the capacity of regulatory bodies to set appropriate standards. The digital revolution has altered fundamental concepts of professionalism, including privacy and intellectual property.