Boost Quote by Thomas Homer-Dixon
“Our marvelous new information technologies boost our power and opportunities for political engagement, but they can also disempower us by contributing to extreme political mobilization that sometimes overwhelms our institutions. These institutions were designed for rural societies operation at a tiny fraction of today's speed and with a citizenry vastly less capable that today's. It's unclear how they will change to adapt to the new reality, but change they must.”
About This Quote
Source Article: The Political Power of Information Technologies, 2010
New media expands political engagement but can also overwhelm outdated institutions, creating instability that demands adaptive change.
In simple terms: Technology boosts politics but can destabilize old systems.
Key Takeaway
Institutions must evolve to handle rapid digital influence.
Themes
technology
politics
institutional change
instability
Mood
concerned
optimistic
Type
analytical
strategic
When to use this quote
- government policy
- civic tech initiatives
- public discourse
Key Concepts
digital media
political mobilization
institutional adaptation
Questions to Reflect On
- What institutional reforms are needed?
- How can societies balance rapid tech change with stable governance?
A Different Perspective
Adaptation may be resisted by entrenched interests.
