Author of machiavelli.net, proud father of three, interested in shaping network society. Welcome to my blog.World 2.0: Twitter Governance [the simple model]
The Greek verb κυβεÏνάω [kubernáo] which means to steer was used for the first time in a metaphorical sense by Plato. As we are moving into network society, we need to ask, what are the conditions of possibility of steering? The simple answer is Larry Lessig’s “code is law†(1998), which argues that governance can be encoded into natural law, as in the first rule of twittering: “thou shalt not write more than 140 characters†where enforcement is automatic “thou shalt not be heard if you express yourself in more than 140 characters.â€
So in our simplest model of governance in network society, code, law, and enforcement are one.
isn’t it sad? firstly, Web 2.0 are often believed to have democratizing potential..but how to democratize, if the instrument implies restriction? secondly, Twitter governance proves that the nature of the state will remain the same – it still will contain laws and their enforcement, be these laws expressed in words or in code. If one wants to govern, one has to play according to the rules of this game 2.0.
isn’t it sad? firstly, Web 2.0 are often believed to have democratizing potential..but how to democratize, if the instrument implies restriction? secondly, Twitter governance proves that the nature of the state will remain the same – it still will contain laws and their enforcement, be these laws expressed in words or in code. If one wants to govern, one has to play according to the rules of this game 2.0.
Although I am also a bit sceptical on some fronts concerning “world 2.0”, I also see great potential in such changes. In my opinion, the problem lies in generation barriers. Yes, the 50-something folks will continue to do politics as usual for the most part; but they are, as far as I know, also realizing that there is a need for change in governance toward “world 2.0” as urged for by the younger generation. And this is where I see potential. You ask how to translate 2.0 ideas into 1.0 action? It depends on our generation to raise not only awareness about the positive aspects of web 2.0, but also to show the more mature generation how to transcend their technology barriers/limitations.
Although I am also a bit sceptical on some fronts concerning “world 2.0”, I also see great potential in such changes. In my opinion, the problem lies in generation barriers. Yes, the 50-something folks will continue to do politics as usual for the most part; but they are, as far as I know, also realizing that there is a need for change in governance toward “world 2.0” as urged for by the younger generation. And this is where I see potential. You ask how to translate 2.0 ideas into 1.0 action? It depends on our generation to raise not only awareness about the positive aspects of web 2.0, but also to show the more mature generation how to transcend their technology barriers/limitations.