Salvation or destruction: Metaphors of the Internet

Authors

  • Rebecca Johnston Texas Tech

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v14i4.2370

Keywords:

Internet, Metaphor, Rhetorical Analysis

Abstract

People use metaphors routinely to express their thoughts regarding the Internet’s nature and potential. In a study of editorials over a three month period, writers used metaphors of physical space, physical speed, salvation, and destruction to describe the Internet. We need to understand what these metaphors imply and how they impact the Internet’s future.

Author Biography

Rebecca Johnston, Texas Tech

Rebecca Johnston is a graduate student seeking a PhD in Technical Communication and Rhetoric from Texas Tech. University. She is researching online communities and culture. She worked as a technical writer and web designer for Iomega and IBM. She has taught new media, web and print design, and writing classes at Davis Applied Technology College and at Westminster College.

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Published

2009-03-18

How to Cite

Johnston, R. (2009). Salvation or destruction: Metaphors of the Internet. First Monday, 14(4). https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v14i4.2370