In this TEDx talk, I explore issues surrounding the balance between technological advancements and the evolution of democratic systems. Think of a world where the human population has increased 50 times over the past 2500 years and attempts to coexist with democratic structures that have hardly evolved to meet contemporary demands.
In light of the unprecedented technological connectivity that connects 4.6 billion people via the internet, a fundamental question arises: Can our age-old democratic systems effectively govern and satisfy the rapidly expanding global population?
In this talk, I emphasise the stark contrasts and emerging threats as it shifts from the Athenian democratic assemblies of 6,000 citizens to the 21st-century digital communication universe. It asks: Have we truly advanced in democratic practice over millennia, or are we, despite astounding technological advancements, retreating into dangerous, undemocratic territories?
Does the quick spread of information and misinformation in our hyperconnected world dangerously undermine people's trust in democratic institutions and procedures? Furthermore, can the incredible power of instant messaging, information access, and social sharing be used to revive democratic practices, or will it still be abused to spread chaos, misinformation, and conflict?
How do glimpses of digital democracy modernization in places like Estonia, Switzerland, Uruguay and Iceland act as a mirror to reflect the flaws in other democratic systems worldwide?
Critically, how can the diverse and plural voices of billions be accommodated and respected in our democratic systems, moving away from constrained bipartisan structures and embracing a more inclusive, participatory digital democracy?
As citizens, we must ask ourselves how to leverage our collective historical experiences, innovative technology, and fundamental democratic ideals to create a future where democracy truly is of the people, by the people, and for the people in our digitally interconnected era.
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