“the quiet before”, by Gal Beckerman

This book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the evolution of social movements and the impact of modern technology on them. The book delves into the history of revolutions, revealing that the groundbreaking ideas behind them often emerged in quiet, secluded spaces where small groups could incubate their thoughts away from the public eye. Beckerman takes the reader on a journey from the 1600s to the present, examining various pivotal social movements and the platforms that enabled them, from handwritten correspondence that fueled the scientific revolution to the zines of the early 1990s feminist movement.

 

However, Beckerman points out a crucial shift in the modern era: the replacement of these intimate, productive spaces by expansive, public platforms like Facebook and Twitter. This transition, he argues, has had detrimental effects on the effectiveness and focus of contemporary social movements. The book investigates why certain movements like the Arab Spring and Occupy Wall Street struggled to maintain momentum and questions whether initiatives like Black Lives Matter have reached their full potential in this new digital landscape. Beckerman suggests that the current social media ecosystem lacks essential elements such as patience and focus, which were instrumental in the growth of radical ideas in the past. “The Quiet Before” thus serves as both a historical account and a critical analysis of how digital connectivity is reshaping activism and the cultivation of revolutionary ideas​​. 

 

“deep disinformation: can ai-generated fake news swing an election?”,

by Ashley Parker Owens

As a timely and crucial exploration into the modern digital landscape, this book focuses particularly on the impact of artificial intelligence in the realm of information dissemination and manipulation. The book offers a comprehensive guide to navigating and understanding the complexities of AI-generated fake news and its potential to influence public opinion and democratic processes.

 

This book is not just an academic treatise; it equips its readers with practical strategies to distinguish truth from fiction in an era increasingly dominated by AI-generated disinformation. It serves as an essential tool for those looking to stay ahead in a world where deepfakes and propaganda are designed to deceive and mislead. For party leaders, politicians, and NGO heads, understanding the nuances of this new digital reality is crucial for safeguarding democratic values and processes.

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Owens’s work is more than a mere overview; it’s a deep dive into the shadowy world of fake news powered by AI. It’s a wake-up call that highlights the disturbing implications of using AI for deception, offering a crucial perspective on how democracy is at risk in an age where virtually anything can be faked. The book’s meticulous research and compelling writing style make it a must-read for anyone concerned about the impact of fake news on democracy and public perception​​​​​​​​.

 

In summary, “Deep Disinformation” is a critical resource for leaders in politics and social activism. It provides the knowledge and tools necessary to understand and combat the rising tide of AI-generated disinformation, ensuring that the integrity of truth and democratic processes remains intact in the digital age. 

 

“new power”, by jeremy heimans and henry timms 

A visionary and insightful exploration of the shifting paradigms of power in our digitally-connected era, this book reveals how traditional hierarchies are giving way to more democratized, participatory forms of influence and leadership, propelled by technology. It delves into the transformation from old power, characterized by centralization and top-down governance, to new power, which thrives on decentralization, collaboration, and transparent execution. The book highlights the role of digital connectivity in this transformation, reshaping how the world operates and how we, as individuals, engage with it​​.

 

Heimans and Timms elucidate the different models and value systems that distinguish old and new power. They explain how new power thrives on cooperation and collaboration, in contrast to the competitiveness that defines old power. This new era is marked by a more horizontal distribution of power, where participation and shared ideas are not just encouraged but essential. They also discuss how this shift impacts the way ideas are communicated and spread, with a focus on participatory and extensible methods that align with today’s digital communication norms.

 

Furthermore, “New Power” offers practical insights into creating and harnessing a crowd in the new power landscape. It outlines steps such as finding connected connectors, building a brand that embodies new power, and engaging users in a way that transforms them from passive consumers to active participants. The book also discusses the roles of platform owners, participants, and super-participants in a new-power community, emphasizing the importance of balancing their interests​​.

 

In summary, “New Power” is not just a book about the changing face of power; it’s a guide to understanding and navigating these changes. It’s a critical resource for leaders, activists, and anyone interested in how power works in our hyperconnected world and how to make it work for them. The book provides a new framework for building communities, spreading ideas, and leading organizations in an era where the dynamics of power are ever-evolving​​.