Abstract

Before outlining the 40 chapters of the handbook (plus Afterword), we begin by offering an editorial overview of some important changes and milestones in the evolution of the digital society. The major impact is that digitality has become ubiquitous, permeating every realm of our lives. Our digital lifestyle necessitates being in close proximity to our smartphones, and navigating life through apps. Being connected is the default mode and, for many of us, in order to disconnect some momentous action is required. The variety and specialization of applications, social media, and platforms have all increased exponentially, empowering us as digital consumers. The digital dream is based on sharing and community, making the social aspect of life pivotal to the digital society. Even though the digital has already gone through major transformations, the chapters that are outlined here demonstrate that there remain digital wonders and worries in waiting.