Feedback 2.0: the interplay of technology and culture in shaping communication

In today's society, which is marked by rapid change, globalization and digitalization, the culture of feedback is becoming increasingly important. This paper explores the theoretical aspects of feedback culture, examining its ethical, epistemological, and social significance. The goal is to reveal the implications that feedback has on human relationships, communication and identity development. The question of feedback arises not only as a technical practice, but also as a moral question. Is feedback necessary for personal development and collective cohesion? How do we shape our identity through the feedback we receive from others? In addition, how does power and authority affect the dynamics of giving and receiving feedback? Feedback plays a key role in the successful functioning of modern organizations. As the world changes rapidly under the influence of technological innovation and cultural dynamics, the ways in which feedback is given and received must adapt to new realities. In the digital age, where communication is becoming faster and more efficient, it is important to understand not only the technological tools that are available, but also the cultural contexts that shape our interactions. Modern approaches to feedback are not only tools for improving performance, but also a means of building relationships, understanding and empathy among team members. In this paper, we will explore how culture and technology influence feedback practices, emphasizing the importance of adapting communication strategies to ensure that they are effective and relevant.

© 2024 by the authors. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license .

Definition of Feedback

The Importance of Feedback in Different Contexts

Philosophical Theories and Feedback

Feedback, as a central element of human communication, can be viewed through various philosophical frameworks that explore its ethical, epistemological and social dimensions. This analysis encompasses theories of social interaction, discursive ethics, as well as phenomenological approaches, thus providing a comprehensive view of the place of feedback in the human experience. Jürgen Habermas, in his work The Theory of Communicative Action (2017), lays the foundations for understanding feedback as an indispensable element of dialogic communication. He points out that open and unconditional conversations are the basis for a common understanding and adds that feedback plays a key role in the process of validating the arguments and attitudes of the participants in the discourse. According to Habermas, feedback is not only a means of transmitting information, but is also a way of establishing intersubjectivity and gaining legitimacy in communication (Habermas, 2017). George Herbert Mead, in his works on social behavior, emphasizes how feedback shapes an individual's identity within society. Within Mead's theory, the individual develops through interactions with others, and feedback is the tool through which social norms and meanings are transmitted and redefined (Mead, 1934). This approach implies that feedback is not only a reflection of reality, but actively contributes in shaping it. Martha Nussbaum in her work Love and Knowledge (1990) discusses the emotional aspects of communication, acknowledging the importance of empathy and understanding in feedback. According to Nussbaum, giving and receiving feedback requires not only intellectual but also emotional engagement. The ethics of feedback lie in its ability to support personal growth and mutual understanding, as well as its potential power to make or break interpersonal relationships. This perspective emphasizes the moral responsibility of those who provide feedback, as well as the importance of the context in which it is given. Phenomenology, which deals 42

with the subjective experiences of individuals, provides additional insight into the significance of feedback. In this context, feedback is not only information, but also a means through which individuals interpret their experience and place within the community. Edmund Husserl and Maurice Merleau-Ponty point out that perception and action also involve feedback that relies on our body and sensations, thus emphasizing that communication is not only a cognitive process, but also a bodily and emotional one (Husserl, 1998; Merleau-Ponty, 1962). From different philosophical perspectives, it can be concluded that feedback has multiple meanings and functions in human interaction. From the establishment of communicative action, through the social construction of identity, to ethical and phenomenological implications, feedback proves to be a key element that shapes our relationships and understanding of the world. Its complexity requires continuous study in order to be adequately implemented in different social contexts. Given all of the above, feedback can be considered an essential element of constructive dialogue in different contexts. Its ability to shape behavior, modify performance, and foster personal development makes it an indispensable resource in education, organizations, and everyday life. Given the importance of this topic, further research and consideration of its aspects can contribute to the development of a more comprehensive understanding of feedback and its impact on individual and collective progress.

Identity and Feedback

Feedback Ethics

The Impact of Contemporary Changes on Feedback Practice

The modern world is facing rapid changes that are shaping the way feedback is given, received, and interpreted. Technological advancements, along with changes in social norms and culture, have a significant impact on the practice of feedback within organizations and the wider community. This phenomenon can be viewed through the prism of digitalization, increased social interaction through social networks, as well as changes in work environments. With the development of digital technologies, especially communication platforms such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, and various project management 44

Conclusions

In this paper, we explore the relationship between identity and feedback, emphasizing how this complex relationship shapes individual and collective identities in contemporary society. Based on the analysis of the relevant literature, it is clear that feedback plays a key role in shaping individuals' perception of themselves and their belonging to different groups. First, on an individual level, feedback acts as a mirror that reflects our abilities, values, and self-confidence. Positive feedback can strengthen an individual's self-confidence, validating their identity as a capable and valuable member of the community. In contrast, negative feedback can cause suspicion and insecurity, which can lead to an identity crisis. This process depends on the context in which the feedback is shared, including relationships with family, peers, and teachers. Therefore, understanding feedback mechanisms is essential for the development of a healthy personality and the strengthening of self-confidence. On a collective level, feedback has the power to shape group identities and influence the dynamics within communities. Effective communication and transparent feedback sharing within teams and groups can strengthen group cohesion and identity. This cohesion can be crucial in situations that require cooperation and joint work, while a lack of feedback can cause confusion and conflict. In a dynamic social environment, where the boundaries between identities are often questioned, the importance of open communication and constructive feedback becomes even greater. In light of these analyses, it is important to recognize that feedback comes not only from formal sources, such as the education system or professional environments, but also from everyday interactions with friends, family, and community. Therefore, developing a culture of openness and constructive dialogue in all aspects of life can significantly contribute to the strengthening and development of identity, enabling individuals and collectives to thrive. Finally, future research should focus on further understanding the complex connections between feedback and identity, especially in the context of ubiquitous digitalization and globalization. As ways of communicating and forming identities continue to change, it is necessary to explore how new forms of feedback, such as those coming from social media, affect perceptions of self and belonging, as well as how they can shape social norms and values. This will enrich our understanding of human nature and social dynamics in modern society.