Chapter 6 deals with the topic of public discourse ethics, and is defined in the book as "conversation about ideas in civic/community contexts marked by diversity of perspectives requiring thoughtful public engagement" (pg.100). It is an idea that encourages listening, agreement, and contention among an audience in the public arena. In addition to its definition, the authors also include the topics of public decision making and differentiation of public and private space. Public decision making is the standard of which we use to evaluate whether or not decisions are right or wrong within the public arena. Differing ideas, theories, and actions shape our conception of proper decision making in public. The differentiation of public and private space is the "identification of two spheres of life that shape and inform each other by maintaining their separate identities" (pg.100). It is important to know how to approach certain situations, whether they are in private, or among hundreds of other people.
A very concrete example the book offers pertaining to public decision making is the internet. The internet is perhaps the world's largest public space, and the right and wrong within its space must be acknowledged. Especially now that we are in the age of social media, and sharing thoughts and opinions on the internet has become more popular than ever. Posts that are looked at as right or wrong can provoke many different responses from others, and a standard of behavior over social media is formed. When posting on the internet, people tend to lose any sort of filter and will say terrible things that should not ever be said in public space, although the original poster has the ultimate control of what they do and do not say on the internet. An example that really stood out to me pertaining to the differentiation of public and private space was the mentioning of cell phone conversations in public. This is where what should be private is often made public, as a conversation that should most likely take place alone, is now being held in public, and is hard to be ignored by others. Some people may not be afraid to say whatever they feel on the phone, no matter where they are, while others may filter what they say, and important information is not shared in the conversation. Overall, public discourse is an interesting concept that must be navigated carefully by all.
I agree with your comments about the Internet. I think this is a place actually where public discourse ethics has began to vanish. As you said there is no filter at times for people as they feel safe behind the Internet. I wonder if there is a way to possible find a way to bring some safety to this public space. At times it seems that there is nothing left unsaid on the Internet, especially personal attacks.
ReplyDeleteYour example created a clear understanding pertaining to the realms of public discourse ethics. Today, the Internet plays an important role in society and especially with young people and the continuous need to be connected. Why do you think we need to be connected at all times? Relating back to the definition of public discourse, “it’s an idea that encourages listening, agreement and contention among an audience in a public arena” is social media really a platform for listening and agreement? I feel like social media often can be a place where people use the ambiguity of the Internet to be an “Internet Troll” and say whatever ever they feel and don't worry about the repercussions.
ReplyDeleteAdditionally, the example you provided from textbook about the differentiation of public and private space involving the use of cell phones in public is evident throughout society today. I agree that our conversations should be private, but that is not the case at all. It’s so difficult to ignore conversations of others around you; especially on the phone because they always talk so loud it’s hard to tune them out. When students at the U are talking loud on the phone and disrupting other students, how would you address the situation? Do you think the U should make a policy on no talking on the phone when in the library, study areas, or hallways?