“…it gives voice to political dissent.” The Wall Street Journal, Monday, May 5, 2008
I came across an article in the Wall Street Jounal that talked about Facebook as being more than a social platform but also a harbor for political discussions and activism. Technology truly amazes me because it bridges certain places, or people for this matter, into a network that could not possibly exist without it. For the people in Cairo, Egypt, Facebook provided a non-violent and peaceful alternative to protest certain issues that mattered to them. However, certain government officials still found a way to censor these protesters by tracking them down and arresting them. They would also flag the posts and prevent further assembly of Facebook members who voice out their opinion.
This article humbly reminded me that other parts of the world do not have the luxury of Freedom of Speech like we do here in (North) America. Just thought I’d share that Facebook is really a useful tool to facilitate social and political happenings wherever you may be in the world… whether you’re in New York, Montreal, Paris… or Cairo, Egypt.
kristin sloan
wow!
May 22, 2008 @ 19:48
Jim Clyne
nice post, benny
facebook can also be used to market dance-related media
May 22, 2008 @ 21:57
Stephanie
Yes, but you must realize why they are so strict with freedom of speech in Egypt. The people they are limiting are the pro-Islamists who were responsible for the tourist murders in the 90’s. These folks advocate the violent overthrow of the government, the institution of shari’a law and the banishment of women from public life. The founding member of the Muslim Brotherhood, which was mentioned here in this article, was a mentor and inspiration for every radical terrorist group in the Middle East, to include al-Qaeda. THe ultimate catch 22: freedom of religion, freedom of speech or freedom FROM religion! Glad I’m in America….
May 22, 2008 @ 23:36
thewinger.com » Facebook Gangsta
[...] Since Benny wrote about the serious and world-changing effects of Facebook - which was really interesting to see - I thought it might be fun to lighten it up with this video from our friends at College Humor. Go funlap! [...]
May 30, 2008 @ 02:19