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11 - Are New Technologies Beneficial to Liberal Democracy and Good Governance – or Wreaking Havoc on Them?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  30 September 2025

Todd L. Pittinsky
Affiliation:
Stony Brook University, State University of New York
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Summary

The chapter explores the impact of new technologies on liberal democracy, highlighting both positive and negative dimensions. E-governance, facilitated by information and communication technologies, improves efficiency, transparency, and accountability, reducing the need for physical government visits. AI-supported online voting enhances participation and prevents fraud, while social media and online communities can foster social capital. However, challenges arise as well. Social media algorithms can manipulate information, affecting public opinion, and tech giants’ dominance may influence democratic participation. Increased reliance on digital systems exposes governments to cybersecurity threats, undermining public confidence. Inequality in internet access disenfranchises those without it, leading to voter suppression and declining trust. Algorithms contribute to polarization and filter bubbles, with deepfakes impacting political discourse. In totalitarian contexts, technology aids activism against authoritarian regimes through anonymous communication and encryption. The chapter concludes by advocating strategies for maximizing benefits and minimizing harm, emphasizing digital literacy, citizen education, data privacy regulations, responsible technology use, community empowerment, activism, awareness, and accountability for ethical use by governments and tech companies. Recognizing the importance of both physical and digital connections is crucial for thriving liberal democracies.

Information

Type
Chapter
Information
Understanding Technology and Society
Seminal Questions and Enduring Insights
, pp. 137 - 147
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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