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

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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