Intellectuals and social networks: new media, old traditions

• Main Author: Rita Figueiras
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universidade de São Paulo 2012-12-01
• Series: Matrizes
• Subjects: Intelectuais, Televisão, Internet, Salões oitocentistas
• Online Access: http://www.revistas.usp.br/matrizes/article/view/48055

One of the central institutions where the identity of intellectuals was cemented, theeighteenth century salon, is being re-enacted today, precisely on the internet. By supplyingtechnological resources for the socialization of the projects of each intellectualin a network of similar subjects, lay experts and non-specialists, the Internet, a liquidmedia per excellence, as a privileged set for new authorities of knowledge to expressand expand themselves, became not just a cause of disintegration, but also a powerfulsocial re-construction tool both for intellectual community and public culture. TheInternet is a place where intellectuals are finding room for exerting their role of reflexiveconscience of contemporary era.