"PROFOUND TRANSFORMATION"

It is an ever more commonly held opinion that, just as the Industrial Revolution in its day brought about a profound transformation in society by the modifications it introduced into the cycles of production and the lives of workers, so today the radical changes taking place in communications are guiding significant cultural and social developments.

"VAST CULTURAL TRANSFORMATION"

The new technologies are not only changing the way we communicate, but communication itself, so much so that it could be said that we are living through a period of vast cultural transformation.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES

This means of spreading information and knowledge is giving birth to a new way of learning and thinking, with unprecedented opportunities for establishing relationships and building fellowship.

"NEW HORIZONS"

New horizons are now open that were until recently unimaginable; they stir our wonder at the possibilities offered by these new media and, at the same time, urgently demand a serious reflection on the significance of communication in the digital age.

MUST SERVE COMMON GOOD

... The new communications technologies must be placed at the service of the integral good of the individual and of the whole of humanity.

"PROFOUND ASPIRATIONS"

If used wisely, they can contribute to the satisfaction of the desire for meaning, truth and unity which remain the most profound aspirations of each human being.

"POTENTIAL FRIENDSHIPS"

The new technologies allow people to meet each other beyond the confines of space and of their own culture, creating in this way an entirely new way of potential friendships. This is a great opportunity, but it also requires greater attention to and awareness of possible risks.

CAN'T REPLACE DIRECT CONTACT

It is always important to remember that virtual contact cannot and must not take the place of direct human contact with people at every level of our lives.

(Source: Message for World Communications Day, 1/24/11)