Welcome to the Youtube Effect
Welcome to the YouTube effect. We all use YouTube. Some post videos, some just watch them, but we all can admit to being a part of the crowd huddled around a computer to gaze at some hilarious, or shocking, video. It is an internet phenomenon because of its financial success and its impact on the way information is gathered and shared. Individuals acting on their own, sharing what they think the world needs to see and understand. Every month, YouTube receives 20 million visitors, who watch 100 million video clips a day. There are 65,000 new videos posted every day. We all know the ridiculous clips produced by bored and/or intoxicated college students, but some are serious.
YouTube is a tool that is used by everyone; college students, businesses, human rights groups, and even terrorists. Some are clips of incidents that have political consequences or document important trends, such as global warming, illegal immigration, and corruption. Some videos reveal truths. Others spread disinformation, propaganda, and outright lies. All are part of the YouTube effect.
One example of a serious incident is the recent tragedy where Chinese soldiers shot down Tibetan monks, women, and children in cold blood. The government might have escaped, the deaths silent and frozen in the mountains. Instead, a passing climber who caught the murders on tape discovered and shared them with the world. YouTube was his tool through which he cried out for justice in the face of such an intimidating red horror. The world sat in their homes gasping at what played out before their very eyes. The response was less than what I had hoped for. Our ambassador wagged his finger in displeasure at the Chinese government while his boss (George W. Bush) turned a blind eye and calmly shook hands ensuring more economic commerce (which will benefit his pocket). I hope that in time, more injustices throughout the world maybe brought to the light. And as a nation of individuals (and hopefully soon a competent leader), once educated, can make this world a better place.
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Tags: YouTube
April 6th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
The internet isn’t called the “great equalizer” for nothing! YouTube is a great place to spread truth and reveal lies.
We are living in an ever more transparent world thanks to the power the net gives everyone regardless of situation, all they need is a connection. I think we will see it starting to expose lies more and more.
This last election has been the opening act for the new world of exposure of lies. On many occasions politicians have had videos surface on YouTub e blatantly contradicting their statements.
This is the reason this freedom we all enjoy is under attack from politicians, they don’t like the power it allows us and the precarious position it puts them in. Look for the net being taxed eventually and extreme regulations put on it, often in the guise of a “moral” motive.
Anyone have any examples of lies being exposed recently?