Week 3: Shared Awareness in a Developing Context

For years, when social media and internet access were limited and print and TV media were state-controlled in Pakistan, people revered the military and the state. They had to believe the official narratives. However, with increased internet access and social media presence, a "shared awareness" has emerged as people have become more informed and critical of political dynamics, better understanding the true state of affairs.

Reading “The Latent Community in Every Webpage” by Clay Shirky made me reflect on the current political climate in Pakistan. The recent elections saw the highest voter turnout in history, driven by a shared awareness of the importance of voting rights. People are now more engaged and recognize the importance of their voting rights. This change shows a more informed and active population, thanks to the shared information and discussions on social media and the internet.