SIGNIS India's National Assembly Explores Human Communication in a Digital World

Hyderabad, 18 February 2025: The SIGNIS India National Assembly, a gathering of media professionals from across the country, kicked off today at the Montfort Social Institute (MSI) in Hyderabad, Telangana. The two-day event, which began with a concelebrated Holy Mass led by H.E. Cardinal Anthony Poola and Most Rev. Jayarao Polimera, aims to explore the complexities of human communication in the digital age.

A panel discussion on "Human Communication in a Digital World: Perspectives of Youth, Lay People, and Lay Professionals" was moderated by Dr. Stevenson, former Dean of Osmania University. The first speaker, Dr. Ravi Kumar, Head of the Mass Communication Department at St. Francis College, emphasised the importance of human communication in various aspects of life.

Dr. Kumar highlighted that humans are emotional creatures and that non-verbal communication, such as touch, can convey powerful messages. He stressed that verbal communication is crucial for peaceful dialogue, citing the significance of tone, pauses, and other elements.

However, Dr. Kumar noted that the digital world poses significant challenges to meaningful communication. The abundance of information available online has led to a culture of consumption rather than contemplation. Social media, driven by entertainment, has diminished our ability to engage in meaningful dialogue.

The consequences of this digital culture include a "popcorn brain" characterised by multitasking, shortened attention span, impatience in dialogue, and reduced emotional depth. Dr. Kumar also warned about the threats of misinformation, fake news, AI deepfakes, manipulated content, privacy, and cybersecurity risks.

Furthermore, the constant need to upload and share content has led to data breaches, social isolation, and mental health issues. Dr. Kumar coined the term "Phantom Vibration Syndrome" to describe the anxiety caused by the constant expectation of digital notifications.

To mitigate these challenges, Dr. Kumar advocated for a culture of peace, respect, and open dialogue. He emphasised the need for digital empathy, recognising that people have emotions and deserve respect online.

In conclusion, Dr. Kumar's talk highlighted the complexities of human communication in a digital world. While technology presents opportunities for connection and dialogue, it also poses significant challenges to meaningful communication. By promoting a culture of peace, respect, and empathy, we can harness the potential of digital communication to build stronger, more compassionate relationships.

By Fr. Suresh Matthew