Book Review: Digitally Hijacked: The Age of Influence: How Social Media and AI Are Reshaping Our Reality

Publisher: Resource Publications, an imprint of Wipf and Stock Publishers

ISBN : 979-8385238040

264pp.

Amazon link :https://a.co/d/1hiyNnu

Publisher link : https://wipfandstock.com/9798385238064/digitally-hijacked-the-age-of-influence/

Genre: Nonfiction /Self Help/Technology & Society

Reviewed by

In an era where social media applications and artificial intelligence dictate our daily lives while playing with our privacy to sell our data to marketing companies, Digitally Hijacked: The Age of Influence: How Social Media and AI Are Reshaping Our Reality by Dr. Muhammad Atique emerges as a critical examination of how these forces shape contemporary life. This timely and thought-provoking book unpacks the profound impact of digital technologies on human behavior, communication, and decision-making, offering readers a well-researched analysis of the benefits and perils of our hyper-connected world.

A Timely Exploration of Digital Influence

Dr. Atique, an esteemed academic with expertise in digital media, public administration, and communication studies, presents a compelling argument about the omnipresence of social media and AI in our daily lives. Drawing on his extensive research, he examines how digital platforms manipulate public opinion, reinforce biases, and create echo chambers that alter perceptions of reality. He meticulously illustrates how these technologies are not just tools for information sharing but powerful agents of influence, capable of reshaping democracy, governance, and cultural norms.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its ability to bridge academic insights with real-world examples, making complex theories accessible to both scholars and general readers. Atique dissects major social media phenomena such as FOMO, Information Overload, Digital Fasting,, fake news, algorithm-driven content personalization, and AI-powered persuasion techniques, showing how they manipulate emotions and behaviors at a scale never before seen in human history.

A Deep Dive into AI and Social Media Manipulation

The book is structured into multiple chapters, each delving into a different aspect of digital influence. It covers a range of crucial topics including:

• The psychological impact of Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) and social validation loops that keep users glued to their screens.
• The role of AI-driven recommendation systems in shaping personal choices, from shopping to political opinions.
• The ethical dilemmas surrounding data privacy, misinformation, and AI’s role in election interference.
• The transformation of human identity in the digital age, where virtual personas often carry more weight than real-life interactions.

Dr. Atique’s discussion on digital tribalism is particularly insightful, highlighting how algorithmic curation fosters ideological divides by constantly feeding users content that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs. He presents case studies demonstrating how misinformation spreads like wildfire, often outpacing factual information, and how bad actors exploit these vulnerabilities for political and financial gain.

Engaging Style and Thought-Provoking Illustrations

The book stands out for its engaging narrative and well-structured arguments. Structured into three distinct sections—Understanding Digital Media, Understanding Digital Cultures, and Understanding Digital Transformation—the book provides readers with a nuanced understanding of the digital age’s complexities. Each chapter begins with a thought-provoking illustration that sets the stage for the ensuing discussion and concludes with discussion questions and key takeaways, encouraging readers to reflect critically on the content. Unlike many academic works that can be dense and inaccessible, Atique’s writing is fluid and compelling, striking a balance between rigor and readability. Additionally, the inclusion of 23 thought-provoking illustrations enhances the reader’s understanding of complex concepts, visualizing data trends, AI influence maps, and social media interaction patterns.

A Call for Digital Literacy and Ethical Tech Development

Beyond diagnosing the problems, Digitally Hijacked offers solutions to navigate this digital minefield. Dr. Atique emphasizes the urgent need for digital literacy, advocating for education that empowers individuals to critically analyze online content, recognize manipulation tactics, and make informed decisions. He also calls for greater accountability from tech companies, pushing for ethical AI development and stricter regulatory frameworks to curb the unchecked power of social media giants.

His call to action extends to policymakers, educators, and everyday users, urging a collective effort to reclaim control over digital narratives. The book is a stark reminder that while technology can enhance connectivity and innovation, it also poses existential risks if left unchecked.

Final Verdict: A Must-Read for the Digital Age

Digitally Hijacked is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the mechanics of digital influence in today’s world. Whether you are a student, researcher, policymaker, or an everyday social media user, this book provides invaluable insights into how digital platforms shape our perceptions and decisions.

Dr. Atique masterfully combines research, analysis, and real-life examples to present a compelling case for why we must critically engage with digital media. The book serves as both a warning and a guide, equipping readers with the knowledge needed to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape.

In an age where misinformation and AI-driven manipulation run rampant, Digitally Hijacked is not just a book—it’s an essential toolkit for digital survival.

About the Author

Dr. Muhammad Atique is a global expert in media, technology, and culture with over 15 years of combined experience in the media industry and academia. Holding a PhD in Public Administration and specializing in Digital Media and Governance, Dr. Atique has worked internationally as a journalist, academic, and author. He is a Fellow of Advance HE (UK) and writes for prestigious platforms like PA Times (American Society of Public Administration), Medium and Substack.

Dr. Atique’s insights bridge the gap between academic rigor and practical relevance, making his work indispensable for professionals, scholars, and the general public interested in the dynamics of digital transformation. His latest book, Digitally Hijacked, is a testament to his dedication to exploring technology’s role in shaping the future.