Yesterday, I encountered an eye opening article that really brings to perspective one of the negative aspects of social networking and the ability individuals have to assist their criminal activities with technology available today. This article is posted on the Newsweek website and it outlines the fact that, "information technology, particularly social networking through the internet is changing the global balance of power". In other words, the article brings up several instances of ways that social media networks and modern technology have given rise to criminal activities and even overthrows of established governments. While the first example discusses a way that social networks might promote democracy, the following examples explain how they also empower the enemies of freedom.
To begin, the "Facebook Generation" is now known for and credited with the overthrow of Egyptian dictator, Hosni Mubarak. It is truly amazing that this generation was able to accomplish such an astounding feat, but unfortunately this is a positive aspect that comes from the this generation surrounded by several negatives occurring throughout other parts of the world. The article continues by telling the reader to ask themselves how they think the murderous mob in Mazar-e Sharif found out about the burning of a Quran in Florida. It suggests that the reader should look no further than the Internet and the mobile phone. In addition to this, the article states an interesting fact saying, "Since 2011 cell-phone access in Afghanistan has leapt from zero to 30 percent". Another example that is used says to consider the fact that before a page on Facebook entitled "Third Palestinian Intifada, which proclaimed "Judgment Day will be brought upon us only once the Muslims have killed all of the Jews", was removed, it had notched 350, 000 "Likes". The article continues with a unique quote saying, "What we've ended up with is something more like a mashup of civilizations, in which the most militantly anti modern strains of Islam are being channeled by the coolest technology the West has to offer".
There is too many great examples, not to state some more that this article has to offer. According to the Jihadica website, there is now a special data package produced by the "Mobile Detachment" of the "al-Ansar al-Mujahideen Forum" especially for cell phones. The users can download encryption software, pictures, video clips, and even have access to an electronic magazine entitled al-Samud ("Resistance"), published by the Afghan branch of the Taliban. If that isn't enough there is also, "Inspire", the online magazine published by Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula and aimed at aspiring jihadists in the West. Not only does the website contain bomb-making instructions, it also publishes target lists of individuals against whom fatwas have been proclaimed.
It is absolutely astounding to sit down and really realize that some of our biggest enemies and threats in the world can now post on Facebook, e-mail their holy Quran, and "tweet the call to jihad". This issue has a huge ethical and moral undertone and it is unfortunate that while modern technology comes accompanied with so many awesome benefits, it also comes with several negatives. With this article, we can bring up a recent chapter we have studied in class relating to Leadership Ethics in Chapter 15. More importantly, the topic of Principles of Ethical Leadership can be brought up for discussion. While these leaders are not prestigious in our eyes, nor are they well respected by individuals in the Western Hemisphere, Islam extremists are a branch of "leaders" in our world and they have been given exposure to modern forms of technology that can unfortunately assist them in the unethical acts they commit daily. When relating this to the Principles of Ethical Leadership, these individuals clearly completely disregard every aspect of these principles in their actions. These principles include, respecting others, serving others, showing justice, manifesting honesty, and building community. To begin, these individuals are clearly completely intolerant of opposing viewpoints and insensitive to other people's needs. They also are one track minded and only aim to accomplish their own goals, with disregard for others. Finally, these individuals definitely have no sense of justice, honesty, or community, accept for in some rare cases with their own kind. Clearly, these individuals who are infiltrating our social networks and using modern technology to further their own agenda are not only unethical, but also putting fear in the minds of individuals who use this technology to better society and the world around us.
The article can be viewed here.
-Josh Dlabal
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