Communication and citizenship. Symbolic integration in Maracaibo.

• Main Author: Orlando Villalobos
• Format: Article
• Language: Spanish
• Published: Fundación Unamuno 2006-04-01
• Series: Revista Orbis
• Online Access: http://ojs.revistaorbis.org.ve/index.php/orbis/article/view/294

This study attempts to establish the impact of communication in the social network that constitutes Maracaibo. For this purpose we approach the problem from the perspective of Maracaibo society. Relations that emerge from two perspectives are considered, interpersonal and group relations, based on the perspective of mass media. We begin by recognizing the general effects of mass media, but the study attempts to transcend this limitation. Communication is understood as a more wide ranging exercise that includes the distinct forms of social interaction that are produced in the community. From a methodological point of view, we apply a focus based on a qualitative epistemic perspective. We attempt to value subjectivity as a form of knowledge. The conclusion is that collective imaginary is influenced by mass communication. This is reflected in the symbols that identify Maracaibo residents. However, mass means of communication do not reflect the city sufficiently. In interpersonal and group relations, we observe that there has been a loss of sense of community. This loss becomes a debilitating cause in the construction of citizenship.