Evgeny Morozov: How the Internet strengthens dictatorships

TL;DR

The Internet's impact on promoting democracy in authoritarian societies is not as straightforward as some may think, as governments have learned to use it for propaganda purposes and control the narrative.

Transcript

Good morning. I think, as a grumpy Eastern European, I was brought in to play the pessimist this morning. So bear with me. Well, I come from the former Soviet Republic of Belarus, which, as some of you may know, is not exactly an oasis of liberal democracy. So that's why I've always been fascinated with how technology could actually reshape and ope... Read More

Key Insights

• 💡 The assumption that giving people connectivity and devices will inevitably lead to democracy is flawed and overly optimistic.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do governments in authoritarian societies use the Internet for propaganda purposes?

Governments in authoritarian societies are using the Internet to hire and train bloggers who leave ideological comments and create blog posts that support their political agendas. By controlling the narrative, they attempt to maintain control and discredit any critical voices.

Q: Why is censorship less effective in some authoritarian societies?

Censorship is less effective in some authoritarian societies because when content critical of the government is banned, it often spreads rapidly through other blogs and websites, making it challenging for authorities to contain it. This creates a cat-and-mouse game where blocking content ultimately emboldens people to find ways around censorship.

Q: How does authoritarian deliberation benefit authoritarian regimes?

Authoritarian deliberation, where governments engage with their critics and allow them to engage with each other online, actually strengthens authoritarian regimes. It helps them gather intelligence on emerging threats, share blame for failed policies, and increase their legitimacy by creating the illusion of democratic participation.

Q: What role does the Internet play in political engagement among digital natives?

The Internet plays a complex role in political engagement among digital natives. While it has empowered young people in many ways, it doesn't necessarily lead to political activism. Instead, it may serve as a form of escape and entertainment, with people focusing more on activities like gaming and downloading pornography rather than political engagement.

Q: What should be the focus when aiming to promote democracy in authoritarian societies?

The focus should be on empowering intellectuals, dissidents, NGOs, and members of civil society in authoritarian societies. Rather than solely focusing on the number of devices or connectivity, efforts should be made to support these individuals and groups who can drive change and shape the narrative.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker reflects on their experience working in an NGO using new media to promote democracy in authoritarian societies but realizing that dictatorships are not easily dismantled by the Internet.

• Governments have learned to use the Internet for propaganda purposes, hiring and training bloggers to leave ideological comments and create blog posts that support their political agendas.

• Authoritarian deliberation, where governments engage with critics and allow them to engage with each other online, can strengthen the regime and increase legitimacy, as well as gather intelligence.