Book Review: Digital Lives Matter: Understanding Media in the 21st Century
Published as part of a StudyXY initiative, "Digital Lives Matter" enters the crowded field of media literacy texts with ambition — but does it deliver the depth and rigor expected in higher education settings? A Bold Premise, Broad Scope At first glance, Digital Lives Matter promises to unpack the complexities of media in the 21st century — from TikTok to legacy journalism, AI algorithms to civic responsibility. The book’s structure is ambitious, organized across three main parts: media foundations, literacy tools, and emerging issues in digital citizenship. What sets this work apart is its attempt to frame media literacy not merely as a set of skills, but as a civic imperative. That positioning is both timely and appropriate given increasing concerns over misinformation, polarization, and declining trust in institutions. Strengths: Accessibility and Relevance One of the book’s major strengths is accessibility. Its language is clear and jargon-free, suitable for...
