Question

Enhanced communication has allowed for the growth of "networks" of organizations. What are the pros and cons of these new actors on the international stage? Refer to both civil and uncivil networks- use specific examples that are different than the ones mentioned in the lesson notes. Support your responses with references to the course material - be sure to read and reference the articles by Arquilla and Weimann.

Answer 1

The correct answer to this open question is the following.

You did not include the lesson notes or the link to them, to know what you are talking about. Neither the articles of the authors Arquilla and Weimann.

However, trying to help, we did some research and can comment on the following.

It is true that enhanced communication has allowed for the growth of "networks" of organizations. The pro of these new networks is that it allows people who have similar thoughts or opinions, to have a formal channel of communication to express their points of views and fight for their causes.

The con of these new actors on the international stage is that not all have the best intentions in mind. Some of them can use the new networks for negative purposes as in the case of terrorist groups. For instance, John Arquilla affirms that most of these groups are formed to protest against the policies of governments or are anti-status quo.

Some of these groups promote an environmental agenda, civil rights, support any particular ideology or country in disgrace, or simply critique the performance of a public official or government.