Here's a column by Frank Rich of the New York Times is essence pooh-poohing the notion that somehow Twitter or Facebook played key roles in the Egyptian uprising. He suggests they were tools used by activists, but not the catalyst for the uprising.
For a different perspective, you'll find a short video about young Egyptians and social media here.
What you think? Does technology make unrest more likely, or is Facebook just the handbill of the 21st century?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
To me it is obvious how effective, efficient, and well used technology like Facebook is to connecting, informing/educating, and providing an avenue for feedback and discussion of the media. Using this kind of tool to spread or provoke a country's uprising or unrest is also obvious. It is impossible to refute considering the facts represented by not only the young people of Egypt, but also by reviewing how it has been effectively used in our own country during elections, scandals, lawsuits, acts of terrorism, etc. Facebook and similar technologies have and still are used every day to persuade/dissuade or join people into acting on an issue concerning them and their country. If millions and millions of people are using Facebook to communicate and socialize on a seemingly religious basis the argument of it being used as a key role in an uprising is very possible and is happening right now. Mass media, whether it be via internet or not, is fundamental and required to be used as a tool by activists, lobbyists, presidents, governments, etc. to collectively speak/vote/protest/riot or wage war against or for something they believe in. Media is only a tool to the access of information and not the reason or catalyst for an uprising. It seems clear that in Egypt many people were unhappy with their situation and wanted change. The media, including the interactive Facebook, covers those issues and spreads the word. If actions still speak louder than words, then why not create an uprising or protest if it is necessary in order to be heard. Quinn Lewis
ReplyDelete