About Muhammad Atique:
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.
What inspires you to write?
Writing for me is driven by a deep curiosity about the world around us, especially how technology and media shape human interactions and societies. The way digital media, social media, and artificial intelligence are altering communication, culture, and even governance is fascinating. I’m inspired to explore these changes through my writing and offer insights that can help readers understand the profound impacts of the digital age on our daily lives. For my latest book, Digitally Hijacked: The Age of Influence, I was inspired by the pressing need to critically examine how digital platforms and AI are reshaping our reality, both positively and negatively.
What authors do you read when you aren’t writing?
I am influenced by a diverse range of authors, particularly those who focus on media, technology, and society. Some of my favorites include:
Marshall McLuhan (Understanding Media) – His insights into how media shapes human consciousness are foundational to my thinking.
Sherry Turkle (Alone Together) – Her work on the psychological impact of digital technologies is something I deeply relate to.
Neil Postman (Amusing Ourselves to Death) – His critique of entertainment-driven culture is timeless and influential in my own writing about media.
Yuval Noah Harari (Sapiens,Nexus) – I admire his big-picture view of history and technology’s role in shaping human civilization.
Tell us about your writing process.
I’m a mix between an outliner and a "seat of the pants" writer. For nonfiction, I tend to outline first to ensure a logical flow and structure. I use digital tools like Scrivener and sometimes even a simple whiteboard to map out my ideas before diving into the writing process. I start with broad chapters and themes, then break them down into smaller sections. In terms of character sketches, since my writing is nonfiction, I don’t create characters, but I do spend time developing case studies, examples, discussions questions, illustrations, takeaway messages for each chapter, and quotes that I want to include to bring the narrative to life. I try to write in blocks, meaning I focus on one section or chapter at a time, which helps me maintain focus.
For Fiction Writers: Do you listen (or talk to) to your characters?
While I don't write fiction, I do engage deeply with the themes, examples, and case studies I use in my work. I imagine how they might "speak" to the reader, and I sometimes talk through my ideas with colleagues or friends to see if they resonate. I think of it as a conversation where I constantly question if I’m presenting the topic in the most accessible, impactful way.
What advice would you give other writers?
My advice to other writers is simple: stay true to your voice and your message. Writing can be a long and sometimes lonely process, but the key is persistence. Don’t rush to publish before you’re ready—take the time to refine and edit your work. Also, engage with your readers early. Feedback is essential, and building a connection with your audience can make a huge difference in the long run.
How did you decide how to publish your books?
For Digitally Hijacked, I decided to work with a traditional publisher, Wipf and Stock Publishers, because I believe their reach and experience would help my book reach a broader audience. As a first-time author, I felt that their expertise in managing the publishing process, from editing to distribution, would be invaluable. For new authors, I’d recommend considering both self-publishing and traditional publishing. Each has its benefits, but choosing the right path depends on your goals and resources. Researching different options thoroughly is key.
What do you think about the future of book publishing?
The future of book publishing is likely to be shaped by digital technologies and evolving reader preferences. E-books and audiobooks will continue to gain ground, and self-publishing will likely become even more prominent, giving authors more control over their work. However, traditional publishing will still have a place for those looking for wider distribution and support. The rise of online communities and platforms like Goodreads, Amazon, and social media means authors can directly interact with their readers, bypassing some of the gatekeeping that has traditionally existed. The challenge, as I see it, will be ensuring quality in a digital landscape increasingly dominated by self-published content.
What genres do you write?: Nonfiction, Technology and Society, Self-Help
What formats are your books in?: eBook, Print, Both eBook and Print
Website(s)
Muhammad Atique Home Page Link
Link To Muhammad Atique Page On Amazon
Link to Author Page on other site
Your Social Media Links
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All information in this post is presented “as is” supplied by the author. We don’t edit to allow you the reader to hear the author in their own voice.
