Siblings in Cyberspace: Carey's Ritual Model of Communication in the Digital Age

Authors

  • Helen Anderson Stanford University

Abstract

This essay examines James W. Carey's ritual model of communication, as described in his book Communication as Culture in 1989, long before the phenomenon of digital media became prevalent. By applying this model to the Brotherhood 2.0 project, which began as a form of personal communication between brothers John and Hank Green, this essay argues that, accounting for slight modifications, Carey's ritual communication theory is applicable today in the world of digital media. Through their YouTube videos, the brothers have not only created a community that illustrates the ambiguity of the roles of media producer and consumer, but also shaped the way in which their audience perceives reality. 

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Published

2011-10-11

Issue

Section

STS and Our Communication