Concepts of culture of digital society in contemporary sociology

Abstract

This article makes an attempt to streamline existing sociological approaches to studying culture of digital society. First of all, the phenomenon of digital society is characterised and defined. Its specificity is revealed. Then the transition is made directly to the phenomenon of culture of digital society. The main objective of this article is to show connection between the concept of culture of digital society and sociological theories of culture. To achieve it, the article provides a review of sociological theories of culture. In particular, the theories of P.A. Sorokin, T. Parsons and M.S. Archer are considered. The article demonstrates the specifics of the culture of digital society. The historical stages of development of this phenomenon are highlighted. A trend towards digitalisation of public life is identified. Next, the concept of culture of digital society is discussed directly. The final part of the article emphasises the connections between the culture of digital society and general sociological theories of culture. Finally, new research questions regarding further study and conceptualisation of the culture of digital society are posed. In conclusion, the author accentuates the necessity to conduct empirical research on specific and general cases related to the studied concept.