TED TALK- In case you're not familiar with TED; you are missing out. TED is a series of lectures and speeches that are no longer than 10-15 minutes. These people are successful, interesting, and accomplished. Bill Gates is a frequent speech giver. Wadah Khanfar is the Director General of Al Jazeera and discusses the importance of technology as a tool to create change within the middle east. How can these level of changes prevent violence? Is it possible for the use of social networking to bring social change? Do you think this will continue to be a peaceful regime change?
Wadah Khanfar lays heavy emphasis on the term “universal values.” He discusses the Arab world’s realization that change is rooted internally. But, through technology, it can blossom into a movement of the masses that is connected and open to these universal values. The Internet has spawned a new mindset — one that parallels the Arab essence, yet differs from previous initiations the government imposed on its people. Now, authorities have lost their power because they have exhausted their ability to deceive. And, because they have detached from the multitude, they are collapsing. Khanfar declares that Al Jazeera is not a tool of revolution, but a “center of coverage” that has amplified the voice of the people. As the media reveals the truth, those who call for revolution feel protected, creating in a rise in confidence. Though this metamorphosis may not lack violence, it is the beginning of a new kind of change. Technology has created an outlet for individuals to express their dissent with authority, and a window to the rest of the world — disclosing to some what their own societies may lack. Although the Internet is an effective catalyst for reform, the regime change might not be peaceful. For instance, Egypt’s revolution established equality for women, which has begun to ebb away as the protests cease and the feeling of unity fades.
ReplyDeleteTechnology can help reduce the violence in these places because it provides citizens there with a sense of comfort that people around the world can see and understand what is occurring in their country. As Whadah Khanfar explained, being able to broadcast what is happening to people in Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya can create a feeling of protection . As mentioned in the video, the regimes and "political elite" of many Arab countries have lost their power and control over its people. No longer are people fooled by the lies of their leaders. Due to the decreasing power of the government, the young generation is taking a stand and acquiring a voice. For this reason, I do believe social networking can decrease further violence.
ReplyDeleteCivil Disobedience has deep roots in our culture. Henry David Thoreau considered it an individuals moral obligation to resist injustice, especially when it comes from gov,t. Without c.d. In our country the civil war would not have taken place. Without c.d. Ghandi would not have helped the change that resulted in modern day India. Without c.d. The civil rights afforded all our citizens would not exist today. To stand outside the fire - to be indifferent to an unjust gov,t is a serious moral shortcoming. The Arab Spring is the first significant example of the power of civil disobedience in the 21rst century.
ReplyDeleteThe power of several individuals grew to millions through the use of technology. The use of this tech networking is the prime example of the moral good that can come from our interdependent world.
When was the last time you witnessed an injustice? What did you do about it? What changed in you by your action or inaction?