Digital Society and Participatory Culture

Introductory note

Abstract

From a cyber-optimistic perspective, the notions of "digital society" and "participatory culture" have historically been used to extol the benefits of democratic, just and egalitarian civilizations. This compilation of articles is intended for anyone with academic or professional interests in media representations of digital society and participatory culture, as well as their consequences in a variety of international contexts. The studies included in this issue confirm that it is pertinent to adopt a cyberrealist perspective when discussing the revolutionary and emancipatory potential of participatory society to change the current landscape. Thus, by drawing on different theoretical concepts, focusing on diverse methods and responding to a wide range of research problems, the studies included here shape the nature and character of digital society and of the most contemporary participatory culture.