Toward a Stronger Theoretical Grounding of Computational Communication Science

• DOI: 10.5117/ccr2021.02.002.wald
• Publication Date: 2021-10-21T09:56:31Z
• Authors: Annie Waldherr; Stephanie Geise; Merja Mahrt; Christian Katzenbach; Christian Nuernbergk
• Keywords: Macro; Communication Theory

Computational communication science (CCS) is embraced by many as a fruitful methodological approach to studying in the digital era. However, theoretical advances have not been considered equally important CCS. Specifically, we observe an emphasis on mid-range and micro theories that misses larger discussion how macro-theoretical frameworks can serve CCS scholarship. With this article, aim stimulate such discussion. Although macro might point directly specific questions hypotheses, they shape our research through influencing which kinds of ask, hypotheses formulate, methods find adequate useful. We showcase three selected advance scholarship way: (1) complexity theory, (2) public sphere, (3) mediatization theory. Using online protest example, discuss focus (and blind spots) designs shifts with each framework.