Electronic communication and democracy

Patrick Schunck's Am Con Blog: Whitman’s vision of America...: "

Whitman’s understanding of the nation and predictions of the rise of “electric communication” partially grasps the ways the information age affects democracy. He imagined that the future communication would allow America to communicate its unique literary soul rooted in democracy to the world. He did not predict the way electronic communication would alter the nature of the government. The media has always served  as an essential link between the American people and the government. Now the sheer speed of communication creates entirely new concerns for candidates. Candidates must contend with the fact that at someone can almost always take their picture a make of video of any mistake. The media has created the need for a constant struggle to maintain a dignified image.

Thanks to Patrick for these comments that go beyond the now commonplace observation that electronic media can be used to encourage certain kinds of political engagement.  The potential for connection between people and the spread of information are important.  As Patrick points out here, there are also changes in the relationship between people and their government.  There are shifting boundaries between privacy and public scrutiny that effect both ordinary citizens and those willing to serve in public office.