The Relevance of Media and Information Literacy in Today's World
As we navigate through the vast expanse of digital media and information, it becomes increasingly important to cultivate a heightened sense of media and information literacy. This essay explores my personal experiences and reflections on why certain aspects of media and information literacy are significant, and how they impact our understanding of the world and our relationship with it.
My Philosophical Perspective on Media and Information
Like many others, my relationship with media has evolved over time. Initially, I was concerned with the media's portrayal and presentation of the world. However, I have come to realize that the only thing truly important is how the media relates to my relationship with God and my core values. This perspective is rooted in the belief that the universe, as described by spiritual leaders such as Meher Baba, is an imaginative construct, and as such, we should focus on understanding our true self.
Meher Baba posits that all illusion comes and goes, but the soul remains unchanged. The concept of God-realization, or experiencing the eternal soul, is a profound idea that resonates deeply with me. This experience is not about acquiring knowledge about the imaginative universe but about understanding the nature of our true selves.
Practical Examples of Media and Information Literacy
Transitioning from a busy work life to retirement has significantly altered my engagement with media. During my work years, I had limited time to consume media from television, radio, or other outlets. However, in my current retired state, I find myself increasingly interested in world events, which I follow through channels like CNN. Staying informed about current affairs enriches my life and helps me remain aware of global developments.
Word processing technology has been a significant transformation in how we engage with content creation. Before the advent of word processing, the act of writing was a cumbersome process that often required multiple revisions—often with manual correction methods like WiteOut. However, with the advent of computing and word processing software, the process has become much more streamlined and reflective.
The computer has become a tool for reflective and self-reflective thinking, especially when it comes to writing philosophical, theological, and other liberal arts and sciences. The ease of making revisions has led to a deeper engagement with the content, prompting me to refine both the content and style of my writing. This process is akin to the impact of the printing press for Gutenberg, which transformed the dissemination of knowledge.
The Evolution of Media Consumption and Creation
As technology continues to evolve, the way we engage with media and information also changes. Today, the intellectual background required to understand simple word processing is becoming less critical, as more people are using advanced tools. However, the importance of understanding the foundational principles remains.
Clifford Stoll aptly states, 'Data is not information. Information is not knowledge. Knowledge is not understanding. And understanding is not wisdom.' This hierarchy underscores the need for media and information literacy to move beyond mere data handling and towards wisdom and understanding. The goal should be to use technology as a wisdom engine, not just a tool for hacking or data processing.
Word processing has been a transformative tool for me, serving as an extension of my intellectual and creative endeavors. It has revolutionized the way I write and think, allowing me to revisit and refine my work over time. While I embrace the power of digital tools, I also acknowledge the value of the intellectual background that comes from a life filled with printed books and a focus on understanding over mere data collection.
Conclusion
The relevance of media and information literacy extends far beyond the mere consumption of media. It involves understanding the impact of our information consumption on our personal values, beliefs, and overall worldview. By cultivating a deeper sense of media literacy, we can navigate the complex world of information and news with greater clarity and purpose.