The Fourteenth Edition of Tata Literature Live! The Mumbai Litfest
Wednesday, October 25th to Sunday, October 29th 2023

Online : 25 - 26 Oct
On ground : 27 - 29 Oct

Debate : Social Media Strengthens Democracy

  • Friday, 11th Nov
  • 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm IST
  • NCPA, Tata Theatre

One of the most vexing technological issues today is the effect of digital technologies on our daily lives. The role of social media is of particular concern since it has a ripple effect on society and the individual. One highly contested area is the influence social media has on democratic processes and the spread of disnformation.

Social media has allowed marginalised groups an effective  tool to reach out to groups who would ordinarily not be accessible to them. It has provided them with a platform to challenge biased narratives as well. It has allowed multiple voices to be heard.

On the other hand it has allowed a much wider, greater and quicker reach for false and biased narratives to spread. The other big concern is the concentration of power within a handful of Social media companies. This has led to these companies clamping down on uncomfortable information of their own accord and makes them vulnerable to governments that dislike dissenting opinions.

While in itself the technology is neutral naturally, the potential to strengthen and weaken democracy is unparalleled.

For The Motion: Anirudh Suri, Shashi Tharoor
Against The Motion: Sanjay Jha, Antoinette Lattouf
Chair: Raghav Bahl

 

Speakers

Anirudh Suri

Anirudh Suri is intrigued by how technology is shaping our world, society and values.

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Shashi Tharoor

Dr Shashi Tharoor is a third-term Member of Parliament for Thiruvananthapuram and a bestselling author.

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Private: Sanjay Jha

Sanjay Jha is the Executive Director of Dale Carnegie operations in India.

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Antoinette Lattouf

Antoinette Lattouf is an Australian-Lebanese multi-award winning broadcaster, columnist, author, diversity advocate and mental health ambassador.

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Raghav Bahl

Raghav Bahl is a veteran first-generation media entrepreneur, broadcast/digital journalist, and author of the best-selling Super Trilogy.

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