Paper Summary
Paperzilla title
Wittgenstein vs. Big Data: Are We Even Asking the Right Questions About Social Media?
The paper argues that mainstream social media analytics research often misinterprets social media data by applying pre-existing sociological theories rather than focusing on the everyday language practices of users. It suggests a Wittgensteinian approach focused on describing language-in-use as a more appropriate method for understanding social media interactions.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified
Identified Weaknesses
Limited Accessibility Due to Philosophical Jargon
The paper's heavy reliance on Wittgenstein's philosophy, while offering a unique perspective, can make it less accessible to a broader audience unfamiliar with his work. This limits the potential impact and discussion of the ideas presented.
Lack of Concrete Alternative Methodologies
The paper primarily focuses on critiquing existing social media analytics research rather than offering concrete alternative methodologies. While highlighting the limitations of current approaches is valuable, it leaves a gap in practical guidance for researchers seeking alternative methods.
Limited Generalizability of Case Studies
The chosen case studies, while illustrative, may not represent the full spectrum of social media analytics research. This raises concerns about the generalizability of the critique to the wider field.
Rating Explanation
This paper provides a thought-provoking critique of existing social media analytics research through the lens of Wittgenstein's philosophy. While it highlights important ontological and epistemological issues, its heavy reliance on philosophical jargon and lack of concrete alternative methodologies limit its broader impact and practical applicability. It's an interesting read for those familiar with Wittgenstein but may not resonate as strongly with a wider audience.
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File Information
Original Title:
What would Wittgenstein say about social media?
File Name:
Brooker et al - What would Wittgenstein say.pdf
Uploaded:
July 08, 2025 at 01:01 PM
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