The democratizing potential of the Internet in Southeast Asia
Loading...
Authors
Parker, Kevin J
Subjects
Democracy
Democratization
Internet
Southeast Asia
Malaysia
Indonesia
Democratization
Internet
Southeast Asia
Malaysia
Indonesia
Advisors
Callahan, Mary P.
Date of Issue
1997-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis argues that the Internet is likely to he a strong, positive facilitating factor for the transition to and consolidation of democracy for states in Southeast Asia. U.S. policy makers intent on promoting democracy in Southeast Asia should consider the Internet's potential as a tool for promoting democratization. A review of the existing democratization literature, coupled with quantitative analysis of the societal impact of computer networking technologies, suggests that the level of Internet connectivity is a powerful indicator of democratization. Compared to education and income, Internet connectivity provides greater statistical explanatory power in predicting democracy. The Internet experience in Indonesia and Malaysia, two Southeast Asian states ruled by non%democratic authoritarian regimes, supports this argument. internet expansion in both states has co-varied with increasing levels of political liberalization and this may enhance the prospects for democratic transition. Both states have abandoned strict controls on press freedom and free speech on the internet. A democracy assistance program designed to increase the level of internet connectivity in Southeast Asia may serve the purpose of promoting democracy while also advancing U.S. economic interests. Such a program may he viewed with less suspicion and as more politically neutral than traditional forms of democracy assistance
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
National Security Affairs (NSA)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.