Please provide a peer response for the post below.

What are some trends that we are likely to see in the future that will partner technology and government/policy?

Government has become more involved in technology over the years. This was seen when a tax was introduced to online purchases, whereas before, online purchases were tax-free. This government involvement in technology is a trend we will likely continue to see in the future. As said on protocol, "the ongoing cases against Facebook and Google could strengthen the argument for new antitrust laws as they reveal the limits of the centuries-old statutes." "One potential area of agreement is around increased resources for the agencies, including civil fining authority." (Birnbaum, 2021)

What impact has social media had on government, politics, and activism?

Where has social media had a positive impact?

Social media has enabled individuals to have more involvement in government, policies, and activism. This could be done through online petitions, organizations, and even simple hashtags. Social media has made all of these actions easier and has even coined the term "slacktivism" since it is much easier than traditional activist methods. (Greenpeace, 2020) This has increased individual involvement overall and has proven to be effective.

Where has it had a negative impact?

As explained by Above the Noise, social media has been shown to have a huge impact on politics. (Above the Noise, 2020) This has been shown in positive and negative ways. The negative impact shown by social media has mostly been in the form of slander or poor messages. Older politicians have not mastered this form of communication, so at times they may post content that actually hurts their campaign. Outside of self-sabotage, social media makes it easy for groups to campaign against a person. Even if the content is untrue, content that is spread rapidly can be enough for voters to lose trust in politicians.

References

Above the Noise (2020).Should politicians be on social media?[Video]. YouTube.

Birnbaum, E. (2021, January 2).Tech legislation to watch in 2021.Protocol.

Greenpeace UK (2020).Do hashtags and petitions actually work? [Video]. YouTube.