Reading Questions:
Thornton "Does the Internet Create Democracy?' Ch. 7

  1. Thornton seems to assume certain criteria can be used to measure the degree to which communication on the internet (or any medium) is democratic. Try to unpack what these criteria are (i.e. identify & list them). Do you agree with these criteria (i.e. do you think she over emphasizes or leaves any out)?
  2. How well does the internet/cyberspace meet these criteria according to Thornton?
  3. How well does the internet/cyberspace fulfill the promise of democratic communication in your view?
  4. Is it desirable that the internet facilitate democratic communication?
  5. Is it possible to structure internet interactions in such a way that they are more democratic? If so, how?