Re: <nettime> Working on article <...>

[geert <geert@xs4all.nl>]

Ronda,

perhaps the 'problem' should not be allocated in the media sphere in the 
first place. From a certain point onwards it doesn't matter anymore what 
kind of media landscape a country has because the electoral system itself 
is fraudulous and unjust. Maybe it is time to stop thinking that 
'accurate' information will somehow lead to more 'progressive' votes (and 
chosen candidates). How about a fundamental remake of the constitution to 
secure that votes really count? Florida and Ohio are no incidents. This 
topic also has an Internet and computer component these days as nothing 
seems to become so easy as manipulating elections.

If there is a need for an alternative press I would say it should focus on 
understanding the economy and in particular the economy of fear. More and 
more elections are won by mobilizing mass paranoia (through media, yes), 
which become difficult to deconstruct in realtime. There is no 'rational' 
answer to the diffuse fear for foreigners, migrants, unemployment, 
terrorism, interest rates rise, etc. So perhaps it's time for a remake of 
psycho analysis combined with mass psychology, before we move on to new 
media initiatives.

Geert





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