The Possibility For Peaceful, Global, Participatory Governance: A Political Evolution Enabled by the Internet and Manifested by Crowds

Author

Frederick Thomas Tucker, Graduate Center, City University of New YorkFollow

Date of Degree

6-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.

Program

Liberal Studies

Advisor

Selma Botman

Subject Categories

History | Political Science | Sociology

Keywords

Crowds, Government, Internet, Networks, Participatory, Violence

Abstract

This paper argues that peaceful, global, participatory governance is possible in the 21st century with the aid of the Internet and other forms of abundant, instantaneous, recorded communication (AIRC). Such a polity, however, must replace militarized republics and autocracies to be realized. No historical precedent exists for militarized governments to disband voluntarily. The realization of peaceful, global, participatory governance depends on popular resistance in its most potent, yet least militaristic form--political crowds. On the basis of professional and independent research, analysis of primary and secondary sources, and participant observation, this thesis details the historical development of AIRC, the political systems it enables, and its potential to unite the scattered social movements that occasionally succeed in modifying and overthrowing individual governments, but have heretofore been incapable of replacing them with a single peaceful, participatory government, due to inadequate communication methods.

Recommended Citation

Tucker, Frederick Thomas, "The Possibility For Peaceful, Global, Participatory Governance: A Political Evolution Enabled by the Internet and Manifested by Crowds" (2014). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/297