Communication is both a feature and a bug. We are awash with messages which come in the form of text, graphics, sounds and design aesthetics, which target us for many purposes. It is necessary for us to function, share information and ideas and gives us a sense of connection with others, which is essential for our mental health and wellbeing . On the other hand, the overwhelm, misunderstanding, conflict and information overload can be stressful. Messages can be used to manipulate and control people, often without their knowledge or consent.
GDP observes the multimodality of communication – language is not the only way to make meaning. We make sense of things and create meaning by a combination of resources to meet certain social functions or purposes based on our audience. The source for communication is actual relationships we have with people and things. Sadly, we end up being content creators within online platforms who fulfil various aims that are disguised as entertainment.
Can we create an environment where our attention is not exploited for targeted advertisement?