The Obscure Media Theory That Explains '99% of Everything'

6 days ago

The article discusses the 'orality theory of everything,' which suggests that human communication is shifting back towards oral traditions, influenced by mid-20th-century media theorists like Walter Ong and Marshall McLuhan.
Literacy historically allowed for abstract thought and individual learning, but the rise of digital media is reverting communication to more social, conversational forms, resembling pre-literate oral cultures.
Modern communication, especially on social media, mirrors oral traditions with its emphasis on memorability, repetition, and viral content, contrasting with the solitary, reflective nature of literacy.
The article explores how this shift impacts politics, with figures like Donald Trump using oral-style communication (nicknames, epithets) effectively, resonating with the public in a way literate politicians might not.
The concept of 'digital orality' is introduced, describing how contemporary digital discourse blends oral and literate characteristics, creating a new, hybrid form of communication.
The discussion touches on the implications of AI, suggesting that while AI is conversational (oral), it lacks the competitive, agonistic tone of human social interactions, potentially representing a new form of literacy.
The article concludes by advocating for a deeper understanding of media theories to comprehend modern communication shifts and their societal impacts.

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