In one of my classes, we've been discussing popular culture and the idea that much of the discourse surrounding our new media technologies is centered around how democratizing and empowering they can be for "the people". So my question to the class is; do you really think this is true? Do social media sites and other new media technologies hold a significant amount of political relevance?
To me, it seems a little idealistic. I'm not sure that these technologies really allow a more democratized, participatory culture or create conditions for democracy. Take memes, for example. There are plenty of Obama memes out there that bash his policies and political beliefs. Sure, they get a point across--and maybe even one that is shared by many--but do they hold enough relevance to make a real difference?
Maybe I'm being cynical or don't know enough to make a valid argument. Do I need to be enlightened?
There's a ton of discussion on this topic ever since Arab Spring. Google Twitter and Arab Spring, or Twitter and Internet freedom and democracy. You'll get all kinds of opinions, research and analysis on it.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was at Carolina from 87-91 we didn't utilize email or the internet (we'd use some limited dial up). Technologies evolve, often quickly, and so will social media technologies.
ReplyDeletePerhaps the biggest impact of technology on politics will be voter databases, handhelds used by volunteers, targeted variable data mailers, targeted social media ads, etc.
I also believe new technologies will allow greater transparency and accountability. The challenge is sorting through all the "stuff" out there.