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Book cover of Because Internet by Gretchen McCulloch — critical summary review on 12min

Because Internet

Gretchen McCulloch

5.0 (2 ratings)
8 mins
Technology & InnovationSociety & Politics

In her book “Because Internet,” Gretchen McCulloch expounds the norms of internet language to dismiss some of the myths. She starts by explaining what “Internet People” are and how their communication changed drastically. You will also learn about the history of LOL and its many meanings today. McCulloch also touches upon the use of ellipsis, emojis, and the beloved hashtag.

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Who it is for

Best suited for everyone who has ever wondered how to punctuate a text or a message or even wondered where memes and abbreviations come from.

Key Insights

The Evolution of Internet People

Gretchen McCulloch’s 'Because Internet' delves into the concept of 'Internet People,' a term she uses to describe individuals who have grown up with or adapted to the digital communication landscape. These are the people who inherently understand the nuances of online language, from acronyms like LOL to the subtleties of emoji use. McCulloch explains that as these 'Internet People' have become more prevalent, the way we communicate online has evolved significantly, adopting a more casual, expressive, and innovative style. This shift highlights a broader cultural change in how language adapts to new technologies and platforms.

The Multifaceted LOL

One of the intriguing aspects of McCulloch's analysis in 'Because Internet' is her exploration of the term LOL. Originally an acronym for 'laughing out loud,' LOL has transcended its initial meaning and now serves multiple communicative purposes. It can signal amusement, soften the tone of a message, or even act as a punctuation mark to indicate the end of a statement. This evolution reflects a broader trend in internet language where words and phrases often take on new, context-dependent meanings, driven by the need for efficiency and emotional tone in digital communication.

The Language of Emojis and Ellipses

In 'Because Internet,' McCulloch examines the role that emojis and ellipses play in modern digital communication. Emojis, she notes, add an emotional layer to text, bridging the gap left by the absence of vocal tone and facial expressions in online interactions. Meanwhile, ellipses can convey hesitation, imply continuation, or soften statements, showcasing the adaptability of punctuation in the digital age. McCulloch argues that these tools are not mere embellishments but integral components of how we express ourselves and interpret meaning in online conversations, reflecting the dynamic nature of internet language.

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About the Author

Gretchen McCulloch is an internet linguist: she studies the language of the internet for the people of the internet. McCulloch is the author of “Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language,” a New York Times bestseller and Best Book of 2019 by Time magazine, Amazon, and The Washington Post. She has a master’s in linguistics from McGill University and created the blog “All Things Linguistics.” McCulloch is Canadian and lives in Montreal.

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Lessons

  • What pattern is usually followed when you are smashing your keyboard.
  • Who invented LOL.
  • What subconscious decisions you make daily while typing.

Key Takeaways

  • Understand that internet language is dynamic and constantly evolving, reflecting the ways in which 'Internet People' communicate and interact online.
  • Recognize that terms like 'LOL' have evolved over time, acquiring new meanings and uses, which highlights the adaptability and creativity within digital communication.
  • Embrace the use of modern digital tools like emojis, hashtags, and ellipses, as they enhance the expression of tone and emotion in online interactions.

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