Technology has developed at a lightning pace in the past few years. Moreover, it has struck a chord with the masses across nations, irrespective of the political, economic and social fabric of the country. Furthermore, as the people in developing countries struggle to achieve high standards of living and at the same time demand more political rights, the fight for democracy is certainly aided by technology.
The information revolution has given teeth to the people’s fight against any kind of oppression. For instance, the recent revolution in Egypt was furthered through internet and telecommunication. Technology plays a significant role in disseminating information, which was until a few years back the prerogative of the governments.
The highlight of the 21st century is the new media. Internet has revolutionised the way information is channelised and analysed. Anyone can share his/her story through internet. Blogs and social networking websites give people a chance to share their views and in the process form pressure groups.
Countries like China have attempted to obstruct the flow of communication but usually meet disappointment as there is little that could be done to curb the people’s voice which is finding an ally in technological advancement. It must be remembered that China had asked Google to comply with the country’s policies.
India could arguably be called an apostle of democracy but people at times feel the need for a greater role in governance. The recent Anna Hazare led movement demanding setting up of a Jan Lokpal is a striking example of how technology can help mobilise people and in the process lead to decentralisation of power and advancement of democratic rights. The Hazare movement got a tremendous boost from social networking websites, the television channels and the cellphones.
So it can be concluded that technology has given a new dimension to democracy.
The information revolution has given teeth to the people’s fight against any kind of oppression. For instance, the recent revolution in Egypt was furthered through internet and telecommunication. Technology plays a significant role in disseminating information, which was until a few years back the prerogative of the governments.
The highlight of the 21st century is the new media. Internet has revolutionised the way information is channelised and analysed. Anyone can share his/her story through internet. Blogs and social networking websites give people a chance to share their views and in the process form pressure groups.
Countries like China have attempted to obstruct the flow of communication but usually meet disappointment as there is little that could be done to curb the people’s voice which is finding an ally in technological advancement. It must be remembered that China had asked Google to comply with the country’s policies.
India could arguably be called an apostle of democracy but people at times feel the need for a greater role in governance. The recent Anna Hazare led movement demanding setting up of a Jan Lokpal is a striking example of how technology can help mobilise people and in the process lead to decentralisation of power and advancement of democratic rights. The Hazare movement got a tremendous boost from social networking websites, the television channels and the cellphones.
So it can be concluded that technology has given a new dimension to democracy.
No comments:
Post a Comment