Emad Barsoum writes: The Digital Citizen and the freedom of Citizens
In today’s digital age, the concept of a “digital citizen” has become increasingly relevant. With the blast of internet access and technology, individuals can now participate in online communities, engage in digital activities, and interact with others in previously unimaginable ways. But what exactly does it mean to be a digital citizen, and what are the pros and cons of this evolving phenomenon?
At its core, being a digital citizen refers to the responsible and ethical use of digital technology and online resources. It involves the knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary for individuals to navigate the digital world and participate in digital communities effectively. Digital citizenship encompasses many areas, including online safety, digital literacy, digital etiquette, and digital rights and responsibilities.
One of the key advantages of being a digital citizen is the accessibility and convenience it offers. The internet has made information and resources readily available at our fingertips, whether on desktops, smartphones, or wristwatches, greatly expanding opportunities for education, employment, business and trade, and social interaction, making the digital world a valuable and empowering space for many.
One of the remarkable benefits of being a digital citizen is the potential for activism and civic engagement. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for individuals to voice their opinions, raise awareness about important issues, and mobilize for social and political change. Digital citizens can use social media and other online platforms to participate in discussions, advocate for causes, and promote positive change in their communities and beyond. Even create the power for fundamental political reforms and revolts.
Digital citizens tend to develop critical thinking skills, evaluate online information for reliability and accuracy, and separate between credible and misleading sources. Such an approach helps individuals become informed consumers of digital content. It empowers them to make well-informed decisions in their online interactions.
Despite the many advantages of being a digital citizen, there are substantial challenges and severe threats to human rights principles, the freedom of speech, and even the freedom of belief or disbelief.
While we are becoming digital citizens, there is the rise of digital oppression and persecution of any ideas that might contradict certain groups, whether political, religious, or dictator and totalitarian regimes, leading to issuing an ex-communication judgment by depriving some individuals of using specific platforms for a period or eternally even abuse and imprisonment.
The watchers of digital citizens became the digital inquisition or digital secret police. Their job is to silence any opposed opinion or any voice that is not in line with their agendas and their attempt to control the digital and non-digital world.
Our new digital citizenship is endangering our freedom as natural citizens.
