LFU:online

• Understanding of the way in which online media affect our consumption of information
• the ability to critically reflect when engaging with online information

Digitalization and the global electronic distribution of information via the New Media have brought about a deep change in the way in which we acquire and think about information. This holds on the one hand for recipients of information, and on the other hand for those who – often with ulterior motivations – produce it. We need a corresponding paradigm shift in our self-understanding as thinking and informed citizens. We will examine, among other things, how in our digital age we can invest rational trust for information, how online platforms can subtly structure our thought, and what characterizes “good” as opposed to “bad” information. We will also look at our own aims in consuming online information: Are we always interested simply in informing ourselves, or do we have other motivations? Equipped with a deeper understanding of such issues, students will learn how to autonomously and reflectively shape their own engagement with information.

Short readings and discussion.

Short essays over the course of the semester.

Will be discussed in the first meeting.

None.