Collective Memory: September 11th Now and Then

• In Event: 338 - Section on Communication and Information Technologies Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 03.

Abstract

Over ten years have passed since the events of September 11, 2001 in which the events have been interpreted and reinterpreted over time by participants in digital discourse fora. This study examines both longitudinal interpretation of the events and comparative cultural interpretation of the events in different digital venues. Using a comparative case study approach, the research explores how Brazilian, French, and American participants congregate in new media spaces to debate 09/11/01 in 2001 and again in 2011. Comparing their responses, the study identifies commonalities and differences across the three case studies. The work explores how ideological discourse is used to interpret 9/11/01 both in immediate response and via collective memory at the ten-year anniversary. In so doing, the work sheds light on the stability and enduring nature of identity work, identity categories, and collective memory as they are constructed using mediated communication.

Author

• Laura Robinson, Santa Clara University