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Actually this is an area where technology could really change the world. In fact, already has: I've heard it argued fairly convincingly that what turned the tide in the civil rights movement in the US was the appearance in the national media of photos and video of blacks being attacked by the police.

If everyone could see what occupying armies do, they probably wouldn't be able to do as much of it.




There's an Israeli human rights group that's given out video cameras for specifically that purpose:

http://www.btselem.org/English/Video/CDP_Background.asp


Change the world it probably will.

Media is a huge influence on politics. The medium is an important part of what gets covered, how it gets covered, the narrative that goes with it & ultimately public opinion.

There is plenty written on what the television did to the US: Vietnam war coverage, civil rights movements & so forth.

New internet based media is bound to have an effect too as it allows for various new things. But I wouldn't conclude that it will be a positive one. For one thing, the concept of impartial news is out the window. From government groups to human rights groups to armed groups to soldiers with blurred out faces to the next door neighbours, the stories will reflect specific agendas, specific experiences and individual stories. Many will be embellished, forged or corrupted.




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