Ecology

In its evolution, the internet has been greatly affected by emerging communication technologies such as online publishing software and communications technology. Consequently, these factors have led it to be promoted as the new public sphere in the way it has become a facilitator of public discussion and great social change. By Habermas’s definition, the public sphere is ‘a realm of our social life in which something approaching public opinion can be formed’ (Habermas, 1974, p. 49). This is particularly evident when looking at the internet as a form of public discussion.
Since its conception, the internet has caused great societal changes. It has enabled individuals to communicate all over the world effectively unifying all of society into one. It has allowed these individuals to transcend geographical, cultural and logistical barriers and enhance the way they communicate, live and work (Gates 2000). (Ubayasiri 2006) has suggested it also informed the way individuals’ access information including the mass media reportage, and how they take part in discussion of social and political issues. (Dennis & Merrill 2006) have stated that since audiences can be directly involved with the media and its content, the line between professional and amateur journalists have been blurred. The convergence of technology and news media enabled anybody to create and share content over the internet enabling them to express opinions, issues and criticism through platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, blogs and discussion forums, thus facilitating the freedom of speech.
The development of open publishing websites such as Indy media and various other weblogs has also enabled members of society the ability to actively participate in the media landscape. Mainstream articles by major news companies are now open to the criticism of online bloggers and amateur journalists. Individuals who have become the subject of a news article are also now capable of responding by giving