This document discusses the history and concepts of e-democracy. It begins by defining representative democracy and examining early efforts to use technology like cable TV to enhance civic participation. It then reviews theories of democracy from philosophers like Rousseau and examines issues like voter apathy, special interests, and accountability. Recent thinkers on deliberative democracy are discussed as well as Robert Putnam's work on social capital. Examples of early online communities like The WELL are provided along with constraints on citizen participation. Research on the internet's impact on elections is summarized.
Presentation delivered at the Social & Economic Survey Research Institute's International Conference on Survey Research in the Gulf. February 28-March 1, 2011 in Doha, State of Qatar
Sports, Business, Theatre or Drama; change seldom discriminates. It resonates in each and every walk of life. On the brink of a terrific change is Politics, courtesy the social media. Social media has rapidly grown as a forum for political discourse and activism. Its various platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube etc. are providing a plethora of new ways to engage citizens in politics (Benkler, 2006). A great advantage inherent in social media is the possibility of personal, ie., one to one communication. Politicians as well as political parties are seemingly benefitting with this new found ability to reach out to their potential voters. It has become possible for politicians to reach voters in a well targeted manner without relying on the media as an intermediary (Gentle, 2012). Various reactions, messages, feedbacks and debates are generated online. In addition to this, support for offline causes of a political party are also generated through social media petitions
Week 3Rational and Expressive Choice Rational Choice The.docxmelbruce90096
Week 3
Rational and Expressive Choice
Rational Choice Theory and the Rational Voter Model (P = B > C; or Participation or voter choice (P) = perceived benefits of participation or choice (B) > perceived costs of participation or choice (C)) became popular in the 1970s. Pursuant to this theory and model, voters decide whether to vote and which candidate to vote for on some rational basis, usually on the basis of which action gives them greater expected benefits. The model lends itself more than others to predicting what effects changes in external conditions will have on the vote. A major contribution of the model was to emphasize the role of issues in voter choice.
The paradox of participation calls into question this theoretical perspective. The paradox theorizes that the rational individual will not waste resources by bearing the costs of taking part in the voting process but will instead take a free ride on the efforts of others. This is known as the free rider problem. The problem is especially acute when the individual does not perceive their vote as being decisive to the election outcome.
Some have used rational choice theory to argue that those in a high socio-economic class would be less active “because they have the education and intellectual sophistication to comprehend the free-rider problem and because their high salaries raise the opportunity cost of participation” (Verba 1995, 284). The facts however suggest this hypothesis is false. In fact, strong empirical evidence demonstrates that those in a high socio-economic class are actually the most likely to be active.
Other rational choice proponents, including Anthony Downs, have argued that lower information and transaction costs for the well educated imply that it is actually easier for them to participate in politics. Verba (1995) notes “[t]his approach has the virtue of fitting the facts but seems somewhat post hoc” (284).
Overall, rational choice theory must be praised for its theoretical elegance. But, the theory has done a poor job of predicting political participation. More specifically, the theory has failed to predict how much political activity and who will take part.
Some have argued that expressive choice theory can provide a more compelling explanation of voter behavior. According to Schuessler in A Logic of Expressive Choice (2000), individuals do not necessarily participate in collective action in order to produce outcomes but instead often do so in order to express who they are by attaching themselves to such outcomes.
Because under Schuessler’s perspective the value of participation emerges not from the outcome but from the process of participation itself, the free-rider problem is no longer a concern. Participation therefore is not a form of investment but rather a form of consumption. Schuessler wrote, “Consumption benefits are inextricably tied to expression: the sports fan’s expression of team support is required for him to enjoy his.
Presentation delivered at the Social & Economic Survey Research Institute's International Conference on Survey Research in the Gulf. February 28-March 1, 2011 in Doha, State of Qatar
Sports, Business, Theatre or Drama; change seldom discriminates. It resonates in each and every walk of life. On the brink of a terrific change is Politics, courtesy the social media. Social media has rapidly grown as a forum for political discourse and activism. Its various platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube etc. are providing a plethora of new ways to engage citizens in politics (Benkler, 2006). A great advantage inherent in social media is the possibility of personal, ie., one to one communication. Politicians as well as political parties are seemingly benefitting with this new found ability to reach out to their potential voters. It has become possible for politicians to reach voters in a well targeted manner without relying on the media as an intermediary (Gentle, 2012). Various reactions, messages, feedbacks and debates are generated online. In addition to this, support for offline causes of a political party are also generated through social media petitions
Week 3Rational and Expressive Choice Rational Choice The.docxmelbruce90096
Week 3
Rational and Expressive Choice
Rational Choice Theory and the Rational Voter Model (P = B > C; or Participation or voter choice (P) = perceived benefits of participation or choice (B) > perceived costs of participation or choice (C)) became popular in the 1970s. Pursuant to this theory and model, voters decide whether to vote and which candidate to vote for on some rational basis, usually on the basis of which action gives them greater expected benefits. The model lends itself more than others to predicting what effects changes in external conditions will have on the vote. A major contribution of the model was to emphasize the role of issues in voter choice.
The paradox of participation calls into question this theoretical perspective. The paradox theorizes that the rational individual will not waste resources by bearing the costs of taking part in the voting process but will instead take a free ride on the efforts of others. This is known as the free rider problem. The problem is especially acute when the individual does not perceive their vote as being decisive to the election outcome.
Some have used rational choice theory to argue that those in a high socio-economic class would be less active “because they have the education and intellectual sophistication to comprehend the free-rider problem and because their high salaries raise the opportunity cost of participation” (Verba 1995, 284). The facts however suggest this hypothesis is false. In fact, strong empirical evidence demonstrates that those in a high socio-economic class are actually the most likely to be active.
Other rational choice proponents, including Anthony Downs, have argued that lower information and transaction costs for the well educated imply that it is actually easier for them to participate in politics. Verba (1995) notes “[t]his approach has the virtue of fitting the facts but seems somewhat post hoc” (284).
Overall, rational choice theory must be praised for its theoretical elegance. But, the theory has done a poor job of predicting political participation. More specifically, the theory has failed to predict how much political activity and who will take part.
Some have argued that expressive choice theory can provide a more compelling explanation of voter behavior. According to Schuessler in A Logic of Expressive Choice (2000), individuals do not necessarily participate in collective action in order to produce outcomes but instead often do so in order to express who they are by attaching themselves to such outcomes.
Because under Schuessler’s perspective the value of participation emerges not from the outcome but from the process of participation itself, the free-rider problem is no longer a concern. Participation therefore is not a form of investment but rather a form of consumption. Schuessler wrote, “Consumption benefits are inextricably tied to expression: the sports fan’s expression of team support is required for him to enjoy his.
Great Expectations: After the vote - citizens online, e-democracy in governan...Steven Clift
presentation and facilitated discussion with Steven Clift, E-Democracy.Org Board Chair and one of the first Internet and politics/government gurus dating back to 1993. Hosted in Washington, DC by the Institute for Politics, Democracy and the Internet on Wednesday, January 9th. Audio also available from http://pages.e-democracy.org/Great_Expectations
On Monday 16 November 2015, Tinder Foundation's CEO Helen Milner OBE visited a Parliament Week event in York to deliver a public lecture entitled 'Does Parliament Dream of Electric Sheep?' These are the slides from her speech.
On Monday 16 November 2015, Tinder Foundation's CEO Helen Milner OBE visited a Parliament Week event in York to deliver a public lecture entitled 'Does Parliament Dream of Electric Sheep?' These are the slides from her speech.
lecture on the politics of net neutrality, to be delivered in Noriko Hara's graduate seminar at Indiana University, School of Library and Information Science, on November 12, 2013
How to Create Map Views in the Odoo 17 ERPCeline George
The map views are useful for providing a geographical representation of data. They allow users to visualize and analyze the data in a more intuitive manner.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
2024.06.01 Introducing a competency framework for languag learning materials ...Sandy Millin
http://sandymillin.wordpress.com/iateflwebinar2024
Published classroom materials form the basis of syllabuses, drive teacher professional development, and have a potentially huge influence on learners, teachers and education systems. All teachers also create their own materials, whether a few sentences on a blackboard, a highly-structured fully-realised online course, or anything in between. Despite this, the knowledge and skills needed to create effective language learning materials are rarely part of teacher training, and are mostly learnt by trial and error.
Knowledge and skills frameworks, generally called competency frameworks, for ELT teachers, trainers and managers have existed for a few years now. However, until I created one for my MA dissertation, there wasn’t one drawing together what we need to know and do to be able to effectively produce language learning materials.
This webinar will introduce you to my framework, highlighting the key competencies I identified from my research. It will also show how anybody involved in language teaching (any language, not just English!), teacher training, managing schools or developing language learning materials can benefit from using the framework.
The Art Pastor's Guide to Sabbath | Steve ThomasonSteve Thomason
What is the purpose of the Sabbath Law in the Torah. It is interesting to compare how the context of the law shifts from Exodus to Deuteronomy. Who gets to rest, and why?
The Indian economy is classified into different sectors to simplify the analysis and understanding of economic activities. For Class 10, it's essential to grasp the sectors of the Indian economy, understand their characteristics, and recognize their importance. This guide will provide detailed notes on the Sectors of the Indian Economy Class 10, using specific long-tail keywords to enhance comprehension.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France. It marked the decline of absolute monarchies, the rise of secular and democratic republics, and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. This revolutionary period is crucial in understanding the transition from feudalism to modernity in Europe.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
Ethnobotany and Ethnopharmacology:
Ethnobotany in herbal drug evaluation,
Impact of Ethnobotany in traditional medicine,
New development in herbals,
Bio-prospecting tools for drug discovery,
Role of Ethnopharmacology in drug evaluation,
Reverse Pharmacology.
2. E-Democracy
What is democracy in general?
How does e-democracy differ from it?
Examples of earlier efforts to use technology
to enhance participation:
Interactive cable TV
Public access TV
The WELL
3. Democracy in General
Direct democracy vs.
Representative democracy
Role of elections and election campaigns
Role of parties
How parties interact with social movements
The role of money in electoral systems
Apathy of voters
4. Origins of Democratic Theory
Jean Jacques Rousseau
Tom Paine
Alexis de Tocqueville
5. Key Issues in Representative
Democracy
Corruption (vote buying)
Tyranny of the majority
Holding elected representatives accountable
Executives vs. legislatures vs. judiciaries
(separation of powers)
Dealing with factions, special interests,
partisanship
Declining levels of popular participation and
voter apathy
6. More Recent Thinkers
Juergen Habermas – communicative action
Benjamin Barber – strong democracy
James Fishkin – deliberative democracy
7. Robert Putnam’s Work on Social
Capital
Professor of Political Science at
Harvard
Best-selling book, Bo wling
Alo ne
Basic thesis:
Not as much participation in
traditional civic associations by
US citizens as in the past
This is bad because that
participation increases levels of
trust among citizens
Possible reasons for this:
Television
Rise of alternative forms of civic
participation
8. QUBE
Cable TV system in Columbus, Ohio
Introduced in 1977
Featured greater interactivity that existing one-
way cable TV systems
Financially a bust
Ended in 1994
9. Cable Access TV
Example of CATS in Bloomington
Typical features:
Gavel to gavel coverage of meetings
School board
City and county councils and commissions
State legislatures
Citizen-created content
Some local news
10. Definition of Digital Democracy
“…a collection of attempts to practice
democracy without the limits of time, space,
and other physical conditions, using
information and communications technology or
computer-mediated communications instead,
as an addition, not a replacement for
traditional political practices.”
Source: Hacker and van Dijk 2000.
11. The WELL and other Bulletin
Boards
Pre-Web systems designed to foster
participation in the 1980s
Originally supported by Stuart Brand of the
The Whole Earth Catalog and John Perry
Barlow
Subject of Howard Rheingold’s book, The
Virtual Community
The WELL had its ups and downs over the
years and is now a fee-based web site
12. Constraints on Citizen
Participation
Long and irregular working hours
Time spent on consumption activities:
shopping, recreation, entertainment
The lack of investment social capital (Putnam)
Fear of reprisals or sanctions from other
members of the community
Lack of confidence and skills
Environmental constraints: transportation
issues, shortages of meeting spaces, etc.
Source: Chadwick, p. 92.
13. Pew Internet and American Life
Project
Initiated in the 1990s by the Pew Charitable
Trusts
Became part of the Pew Research Center in
2004
Main tasks:
Monitor online activities
Examine how online activities affect families,
communities, health care, education, and civic
and political life
14. Bruce Bimber’s Research on
Presidential Elections
Internet had not had much impact on
presidential elections in 2000 and 2004
Main use of Internet was by candidates and
political parties
Public still got most of its information from
newspapers and television but there was rapid
growth in use of the Internet for this purpose
15. Conference on YouTube and the
2008 Elections
Organized by Stuart Shulman (U.Mass.
Amherst)
Here is the web site for the conference.
Reflects speculation about the growing
importance of the Internet as a channel for
communicating with the electorate
Evidence for citizen participation via YouTube
is mixed:
Great use of YouTube for repurposing TV ads
Limited use by citizens for comments, criticisms
16. AOL as a Negative Example
Limits on sending email to lists (justified as
part of anti-spam efforts)
Monitoring and censorship of material posted
to the site
No town hall or town meeting forum for
members
17. Key Questions
What are the philosophical origins of e-
democracy?
Is geographical community and face-to-face
interaction essential for democracy?
Do virtual communities help or hinder
democracy?
Why is it so difficult to be an active citizen? Will
the Internet help?
Do corporate sector discussion forums provide
deliberative public spheres?
How useful are the concepts of social capital
and public sphere for interpreting the Internet’s
impact on democratic politics?