This is a really interesting TED talk, I think, because Ghonim attempts to characterize the so-called Revolution 2.0. I understand how social media and the internet allowed for greater collaboration and thus what likely ended up being a more organized revolutionary process, but the internet carries with it its own inherent risks. Anonymity, while being a solid defense against military and governmental rebuke, is also a danger in that the verity of what is said is not immediately known. People can hide behind this anonymity, and from this arises a certain confidence to type bolder comments. These comments are then regarded on an equal footing which may serve to complicate an already complicated issue. Speaking of, even without anonymity, the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming, especially in a revolution where brief, punchy statements are most valuable. So the internet and social media are merely tools, and as such, I think there is that potential to mishandle it just like any other tool. Perhaps it is unwise to put full faith in technology for revolutions, as Ghonim seems to.
You bring up many good points, I had a similar reaction after seeing this. Do you think that this tool is generally used wisely in/for/with revolutions, or do you think it typically does more damage by adding more complications and brash action?
This is a really interesting TED talk, I think, because Ghonim attempts to characterize the so-called Revolution 2.0. I understand how social media and the internet allowed for greater collaboration and thus what likely ended up being a more organized revolutionary process, but the internet carries with it its own inherent risks. Anonymity, while being a solid defense against military and governmental rebuke, is also a danger in that the verity of what is said is not immediately known. People can hide behind this anonymity, and from this arises a certain confidence to type bolder comments. These comments are then regarded on an equal footing which may serve to complicate an already complicated issue. Speaking of, even without anonymity, the sheer volume of information can be overwhelming, especially in a revolution where brief, punchy statements are most valuable. So the internet and social media are merely tools, and as such, I think there is that potential to mishandle it just like any other tool. Perhaps it is unwise to put full faith in technology for revolutions, as Ghonim seems to.
ReplyDeleteYou bring up many good points, I had a similar reaction after seeing this. Do you think that this tool is generally used wisely in/for/with revolutions, or do you think it typically does more damage by adding more complications and brash action?
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