PUT ARTICLE TITLE HERE (48)
This study examines the role of the Internet as a techno-social factor that has accelerated cultural transformations within Saudi society by expanding access to knowledge, enhancing communication, and reshaping certain values, habits, and patterns of thinking.The research is guided by a central question concerning the nature and extent of this role, distinguishing between the "role" of the Internet as the functions it provides and its "impact" as the cultural outcomes resulting from its use.Adopting a documentary (desk-based) research methodology, the study analyzes relevant literature and official reports and interprets cultural change through three forms of determinism: technological, social, and informational.The findings indicate that the Internet constitutes an open virtual space with a dual influence, offering broad opportunities for learning and intercultural openness while also contributing to value-based and behavioral transformations that vary across social groups and contexts.The study further concludes that cultural transformation in Saudi society did not originate directly from the Internet itself; rather, it was preceded by media, advertising, and a conducive social environment, with the subsequent diffusion of technology and increased youth engagement intensifying the pace of change.The study recommends strengthening digital awareness, supporting the production of national digital content, integrating digital culture and critical-thinking skills into education, and continuously updating digital policies and regulations to ensure safe Internet use, enhance cybersecurity, and promote institutional partnerships in support of cultural and social development.
Publication Details
- Journal
- Humanitarian and Natural Sciences Journal
- Published
- 2025-12-31
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.53796/hnsj71/48
- Primary Topic
- Diverse Scientific and Economic Studies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00