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New Books in Political Science
The Internet, Power, and the Deep State: Zeynep Tufekci on Technology and Democracy Today
Feb 26, 2025
Zeynep Tufekci, a New York Times columnist and Princeton sociology professor, discusses the intricate relationship between technology, media, and political power. She explores how social media shapes civic engagement and political movements, citing examples like Elon Musk's role in European politics. Tufekci highlights the erosion of public trust in institutions, challenges faced during public health crises, and the consequential governance crisis in the U.S. The conversation urges a critical look at the risks of unchecked technological influence and political complacency.
46:20
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast discusses how social media, initially seen as a democratizing force, increasingly serves political interests, particularly during the Trump administration.
- Concerns are raised about judicial independence being threatened by political targeting and public intimidation, paralleling tactics seen in authoritarian regimes.
Deep dives
The Role of Social Media in Protest Movements
The discussion highlights the complex dynamics between powerful social media platforms and their alignment with political interests, particularly emphasized during the Trump administration. The former optimism surrounding social media as a democratizing force has been challenged as these platforms increasingly cater to those in power, as seen in the strategic use of Twitter and other platforms during political campaigns. Notably, this trend was foreseen by many scholars, suggesting that instead of solely benefiting democratic movements, these technologies can also bolster authoritarianism and censorship. This underscores the importance of maintaining transparency and accountability in the relationship between technology and politics.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode