Digital Dictatorship: Social Media, and the Self-Appointed Leader
Average read time: 7 minutes.
A sociological thought piece.
The digital age has transformed the dynamics of power and influence, giving rise to a new phenomenon I have coined: The Digital-Dictator.
Right-wing dictatorship has prominent historical models and is often rejected by those of us who are liberal and inclusive, as it is seen as divisive, exclusionary, and threatening to diversity. However, the emergence of extreme left-wing digital dictatorships in the progressive contemporary Western landscape has caught us by surprise.
Philosophically, or biopsychosocially, it appears that dictatorship is not merely a political phenomenon but rather an inherent aspect of the human condition.
It is a cause for concern for democratic, free-thinking societies, and ironically, the left-wing dictator is equally dangerous.
Digital dictators, are often unexpected self-proclaimed moral figures, and gain the feeling of power through the advancements of the Western world’s unrestricted access to the internet. They become self-appointed rulers of their own ideas and spread ideology through social media platforms. The dictator emerges when there are repercussions for thought-disobedience.
It is a simple task requiring little intelligence to see that any person or group not demonstrating liberal values of inclusion, diversity, and democracy — that is, free speech, freedom of thought and expression — are not liberal, despite self-professed titles.
As a migrant of diverse background and a citizen of democratic Australia, I am a product of a liberal, inclusive, progressive society, and so I would like to see the reasons I made it here protected. For those of us who have truly witnessed the social implications of non-democratic life, we take this issue very seriously. This article explores the philosophical implications of humans with digital-power and the serious consequences to society, culture, and democracy.
The attraction to creating a social media page to champion a noble cause or an idea is undeniable, as it offers a platform to share views, spark debates, and garner attention. However, as individuals gain prominence and accumulate followers, their influence grows exponentially, creating echo chambers that reinforce existing beliefs.
This transformation suddenly offers something far more enticing than the initial moral appeal of contributing to humanity’s greater good; it delivers the sense of power.
Digital dictators thrive within echo-chambers, maintaining influence by catering to biases and expectations of followers. Ultimately becoming the de-facto government that dictates the prevailing discourse in these online communities.
Imagine abruptly being given the title of Ruler?
How can one be morally prepared to handle the emotions that accompany the feeling of total power over all interactions? The lack of awareness regarding this risk over morality, when finding oneself in this unexpected social position, offers insight into the potential misuse of power.
French philosopher and social theorist Michel Foucault’s work provides a theoretical understanding of how power manifests in society, and it is particularly demonstrable in the context of digital dictatorship. Foucault’s theoretical contributions emphasise the relationship between power and knowledge. He highlights how those in positions of power, like digital dictators, control narratives, coerce speech, impose the adoption of specific ideas, and enforce penalties on those who resist conformity.
This aligns with the practices of digital dictators who create a homogenised online environment by excluding opposing voices, normalising their ideology, and regulating language within online communities, demonstrating the profound influence of power in shaping societal discourse and knowledge.
Foucault’s philosophical insights shed light on the mechanisms through which digital dictators exert control and influence within online spaces, providing a critical lens through which to understand the dynamics of power in the digital realm.
The rise and paradox of the pseudo-moral digital dictator in the left-wing political arena have witnessed the seductive influence of power, diminishing moral sensibility. These digital dictators mirror characteristics akin to those who rule authoritarian regimes, insulating themselves from criticism and surrounding themselves with like-minded followers. This approach stifles healthy debate and undermines the exploration of diverse viewpoints.
From a critical thinking perspective, this threatens critical thought and intellectual advancement, as they require the potential to oppose and possibly offend. Only those who are intellectually brave possess the courage to confront reasoned criticism; the rest are easily becoming stuck to the magnetic allure of power.
The emergence of left-wing dictatorial figures may be attributed to the intricate interplay between the newfound power of previously marginalised voices and the ability to freely express the self in ways one has never been able to before via the internet. Suddenly having access to the world and suddenly being able to use one’s voice as desired. This modern-day dynamic exposes the risks associated with power and authority, as people often lack the adeptness in handling social status and influencing others with finesse.
This may be especially relevant when power is unexpectedly handed to an untamed ego. This complex modern-day complication is leading to the erosion of character and the potential propagation of narratives that foster narrow-minded ideas.
Within the realm of philosophy, the corrupting influence of power stands as a subject of deep contemplation, highlighting the fragility of the human condition.
The significant repercussions stemming from the transformation of individuals from disempowered states to influential figures in the digital domain necessitate thorough consideration. This is not merely an issue divided along political lines; rather, it revolves around the relationship between the amalgamation of any disempowered individual holding a position with social-power. As we have borne witness, this creates a potent and potentially perilous combination.
In summary, the rise of the post-modern left-wing digital dictator, challenges our understanding of power in the digital age, echoing traditional authoritarian tendencies. This phenomenon, influenced by newfound online capabilities, raises concerns about stifled debate and the erosion of character, emphasising the need for thoughtful consideration and discussion.
By Dr Esha Lovrić