In today's information-based society, the term "digital citizen" is often given different meanings. According to Karen Mossberger’s definition, digital citizens are “those who use the Internet regularly and effectively.” This means that digital citizens are not only users of the Internet, but also individuals who use information technology to actively participate in social, political and government affairs. Therefore, the concept of digital citizenship encompasses the responsible use of technology online and compliance with ethical norms to promote a positive digital environment.
Digital citizenship is not just a label for Internet users, but also a practice of self-participation in society through digital technology.
The core principles of digital citizenship include the following:
Overall, digital citizenship is about safely, ethically and responsibly navigating the online world while promoting a positive and inclusive digital environment.
In the context of the digital age, the connotation of digital citizenship has become particularly important, especially in the context of the "algorithmic society". The practice of digital citizenship is more about how individuals challenge and adjust their lives in a data-based society. status.
In this data-based society, how individuals can challenge, circumvent or regulate their digital identity has become a key topic of discussion.
There are various types of digital participation, and self-expression of digital citizens is mainly carried out through online articles, social media, and online news reports. While the process of digital citizenship begins with opening an email account or using a social platform, it goes far beyond that. According to the British sociologist Thomas Humphrey Marshall, the main frameworks of citizenship include liberalism, republicanism and the trust hierarchy, in which digital citizens play an important role in promoting economic opportunities. equality and enhance political participation.
The development of digital citizenship can be divided into two main stages: information dissemination and citizen deliberation. In the information dissemination stage, the dissemination of static and dynamic information each has its own characteristics. Static information dissemination mostly relies on readable websites provided by the government, while dynamic dissemination emphasizes interaction with public officials. The citizen deliberation stage is a process in which citizens actively speak out in situations such as seeking to change policies.
The participation of digital citizens enhances the sense of social inclusion and promotes active interaction between democracy and citizens.
However, the development of digital technology in political participation also faces many challenges, including the "filter bubble" effect and the spread of false information. These challenges not only affect the democratic process but can also lead to the division of society. Therefore, there needs to be a better balance between citizen perspectives and government responses.
In highly developed countries, the combination of government and digital platforms gives voters instant access to new regulations and policies, but this also reflects the existence of a "digital divide" in which some people still do not have access to such information, which may Leading to social isolation. This is equally evident in developing countries, where many use technology to overcome the challenges of corruption and social unrest, and these digital citizens make their voices heard through social media or related platforms.
For young people, their digital engagement has had a profound impact. Teenagers now spend more time online than watching television every day, a recent survey shows, raising concerns about the cognitive impact of digital technology. Teenagers not only participate in online interactions, but also form the basis of citizenship in the process, which foreshadows the formation of future public opinion.
In a digital society, how can we better understand and practice our digital citizenship?