Friendship in the Digital Age: Implications from a Philosophy of Communication Approach

Author

Tiffany PetriciniFollow

Defense Date

3-20-2020

Graduation Date

Spring 5-8-2020

Availability

One-year Embargo

Submission Type

dissertation

Degree Name

PhD

Department

Communication and Rhetorical Studies

School

McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts

Committee Chair

Janie Harden Fritz

Committee Member

Richard Thames

Committee Member

Erik Garrett

Keywords

Digital relationships, friendships, togetherness, ethics, communication, rhetoric, phenomenology, philosophy, media ecology

Abstract

Friendship is a central relationship-style that grounds us. Much of the literature on the effects of technology on our relationships, especially friendship, has taken a skeptical approach. The notion of friendship is historically-situated, thus, it requires attention in each era and has prompted questions throughout human history. Our time is no exception. Changing cultures and redefinitions of basic human institutions have led us to our current moment, in which we are experiencing a loud and continuing debate on the effect of technology on our lives. Advancements in science have allowed us to understand our past and present in new ways. Technology, too, has opened the door for new possibilities of encounter. From initial encounter to our sense of we-ness, this text examines the possibilities and challenges of technology on our friendships.

Language

English

Recommended Citation

Petricini, T. (2020). Friendship in the Digital Age: Implications from a Philosophy of Communication Approach (Doctoral dissertation, Duquesne University). Retrieved from https://dsc.duq.edu/etd/1882