Facebook is just another word for Democracy!

When overlooking the four main critiques of information technology I found that in some way or another, all four could be discussed in regards to social networking. However, I thought, who best to discuss the social implications of information technology and its relationship with democracy then Habermas. I have recently started to question where democracy stands in our society, but I looked no further then the world wide web, specifically in this case, towards social networking. Such an example is Facebook. The more I thought about it the more it made sense that democracy would be evident online because who controls the internet? No one! Facebook, is an excellent example of how democracy is currently working its magic in society. It is a tool and medium for free speech, public opinions, and diversity. It stands strong because it encourages individuals from all over the world to communicate with one another in any written, or visual form they desire. Not only do I believe social networking correlates to democracy and our public sphere, but I think it is an evident example of Habermas’s notion of a lifeworld sphere and system sphere. His lifeworld sphere focuses on values and meaningful relationships, whereas, his system sphere focuses on the control of space created by technology. Facebook is the best of both worlds. Physically, if we looked at its appearance to define what it is, one might say: it is a page on a screen with words, colours, pictures, designs, text, that is controlled by YOU, where you can add, pictures, comments, objects, thoughts, groups, contacts, and even POKE people. It is amazing that all this is done through a click of a mouse, even more so, this set up and network is constructed and controlled by technology. So the physical dynamics relate to a system sphere, in which social networks rely on technology to continue providing this democratic experience for society. On the other hand, Social networking also relates to Habermas’ life world sphere because people can write and post diverse and unique thoughts, pictures, and comments. Society can express their emotions, beliefs, values and so forth allowing others to relate and feel their pain, happiness, emotions, etc. By doing this, social networking creates social and meaningful relationships with one another. Overall, I feel that social networking is a system meant to increase and expand our democratic society, as other forms of news, and public opinion are being bombarded by corporations and government politics. The internet allows a free space for anyone from anywhere to speak their mind. You, the user have control and access to what you want to say, who you want to see it and how far you want to take it. Does anyone might suggest a better critique of information society that might better explain social networking?


I found a blog that blogs about Facebook:
http://mcs370.wordpress.com/

I found a posting on facebook just on democracy:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Unlock-Democracy/6574632957