May 11 - ICP 351 Blog Discussion Question.

In the article assigned for the week by Garrett and Edwards "Revolutionary Secrets" the authors conclude on p. 23-24 by stating:

"To make claims about the implications of new technology for the political opportunities available to activists, scholars must place these claims in the context of the social factors on which the outcomes depend. It is insufficient to assert that new technologies dramatically reduce constraints on activist communication, thereby enhancing social movement organizations’ ability to mobilize supporters, challenge elite authority, and more effectively realize their goals. These arguments must be grounded in an understanding of the technology’s current and evolving capabilities and of the activists’ practices, competences, and routines."

What do they mean by this exactly? Have they convinced you based on the evidence the produce in their case study of the ANC's "Operation Vula"?

How would you apply Garrett and Edwards to analyzing any of the following "activist"/civil society/NGO websites below:

IndyMedia Russia.

Civil Initiative on Internet Policy In Kyrgyzstan.

World Can't Wait (United States).