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11 - Conclusion

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 September 2025

Antonio Reyes
Affiliation:
Washington and Lee University, Virginia
Andrew S. Ross
Affiliation:
University of Canberra
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Summary

This chapter summarizes the key conclusions of the book, which examines how the Internet has transformed human interaction by fostering virtual communities and reshaping knowledge, authority, and legitimacy. Through an analysis of discursive practices in digital spaces, the book reveals how democratic participation online challenges traditional institutions and disrupts established knowledge hierarchies. Central to this inquiry is the tension between increased access to information and the erosion of institutional trust, exemplified by case studies such as the Spanish Royal Academy (RAE) and the COVID-19 ‘infodemic.’ The book further investigates misinformation, political communication through memes, and the rise of online activism, showing how digital communities shape discourse and build connective identities. Critical issues such as online human rights, free speech, and legal regulation are explored, with a particular focus on the metaverse and digital vigilantism. By addressing these complex dynamics, the book highlights the evolving challenges and opportunities of online discourse and stresses the importance of ongoing research as society adapts to the rapidly changing digital landscape, including innovations in Generative AI.

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Chapter
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Understanding the Language of Virtual Interaction
Communities, Knowledge, and Authority
, pp. 170 - 173
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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  • Conclusion
  • Antonio Reyes, Washington and Lee University, Virginia, Andrew S. Ross, University of Canberra
  • Book: Understanding the Language of Virtual Interaction
  • Online publication: 05 September 2025
  • Chapter DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009328678.011
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  • Conclusion
  • Antonio Reyes, Washington and Lee University, Virginia, Andrew S. Ross, University of Canberra
  • Book: Understanding the Language of Virtual Interaction
  • Online publication: 05 September 2025
  • Chapter DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009328678.011
Available formats
×

Save book to Google Drive

To save content items to your account, please confirm that you agree to abide by our usage policies. If this is the first time you use this feature, you will be asked to authorise Cambridge Core to connect with your account. Find out more about saving content to Google Drive.

  • Conclusion
  • Antonio Reyes, Washington and Lee University, Virginia, Andrew S. Ross, University of Canberra
  • Book: Understanding the Language of Virtual Interaction
  • Online publication: 05 September 2025
  • Chapter DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/9781009328678.011
Available formats
×