The article discusses how traditional communication models have shifted in the attention-saturated digital age, emphasizing that gaining attention has eclipsed the goal of persuasion. Historically, public discourse was structured around written communication, providing a framework for democracy. However, as Neil Postman noted, television altered this dynamic, transforming communication into entertainment-focused interactions rather than exchanges of ideas. This change has made it increasingly difficult to engage in meaningful debate, as the current environment favors attention-seeking behaviors over substantive discourse.
The traditional model of communication—attention as a means to persuasion—has crumbled. Today, gaining attention has become the primary goal of public discourse.
Attention has turned from a means to an end, resulting in a new model for public debate, where it is all-consuming and often supersedes reasoned argument.
Collection
[
|
...
]