Ivang’s (2008) paper “The Language of Digitalization” explores the language used in the context of digitalization, or the process of integrating digital technologies into various aspects of life. The paper argues that language plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of digitalization, and that different perspectives on digitalization can be revealed through the language used to describe it.

The paper begins by examining various terms used to describe digitalization, including “information society,” “network society,” and “digital economy.” It argues that these terms reflect different perspectives on digitalization, with some emphasizing the economic aspects of digitalization and others focusing on the social and cultural implications.

The paper also discusses the metaphors used to describe digitalization, such as the “information superhighway” and the “digital divide.” It argues that these metaphors can both illuminate and obscure the complex realities of digitalization, and that it is important to critically examine the language used to describe it.

Finally, the paper explores the role of language in shaping our understanding of digitalization by analyzing the discourse surrounding digitalization in various contexts, including academic literature, media, and political discourse. It argues that the language used in these contexts can reveal underlying assumptions and values, and that critical analysis of this language is necessary to fully understand the implications of digitalization.

Overall, Ivang’s paper highlights the importance of language in shaping our understanding of digitalization and offers insights into the different perspectives and values that are reflected in the language used to describe it.