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The Weakening Public Sphere
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The Internet has created pockets of associations that
range from hobby groups to hate groups.
Among these groups, cult groups, hate groups and pornographic sites have seen exponential growth as they can reach out to many other people, including those in countries where these groups are banned. Decent websites unfortunately do not experience such a fast growth as their materials can be obtained from other sources. |
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When like-minded people are attracted to a hate site, for example, the consequences can be disastrous. A person who hates blacks may turn into a hardcore racist if he continues to mix with other racists and will eventually block out other views that will dissuade him from such positions. Thus, these sites become less a public sphere of rational discussion but more of a sphere where there is little open contest of ideas.
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