Apr 03 2006
Internet Usage Notes
Just read two pieces of news at news.com about Internet usage.
1. Netizens abuse GM’s home-made ads campaign: the article.
Summary:
GM launched a contest last month to promote the Chevy Tahoe SUV. The contest challenges viewers to create their own digital commercial about the SUV at Chevyapprentice.com.
Over the weekend, hundreds of people used the Internet to circulate thousands of videos that charged GM with contributing to global warming, protested the war in Iraq or just demeaned the Tahoe’s quality. Some videos also contained profanity or sexually explicit messages.
(The downside of on-line WYSIWYG campaign/lending of GM brand name inadvertently, etc./Why radio talk shows always have screeners)
2. Singapore’s control on politicing on the Net: the article.
Summary:
The tiny island-republic’s laws require political parties and individuals to register if they want to post political content on the Net.
… political activists have complained that the rules are too broadly defined, preventing an open debate. (Senior Ministor of State) Sadasivan said a change of the law was ruled out.
(According to Migdal’s theory: state and society fighting for border in newly openned public space/territory.
Like Japan, Singapore is another prosperous modern state that is not normatively (or even nominally) liberal. How come? Just like Utah–cannot survive autarky but thrives within a larger economy?)