The Open Internet and the 2012 Election

This article argues that the future of the internet is open, and the 2012 election will be heavily influenced by social media, especially Twitter and Facebook.

• The author believes that Twitter's open nature, allowing its stream to flow into other products and services, will make it a crucial tool for communication and information sharing in the 2012 election.
• The article compares Twitter to Google in its early days, emphasizing the value of open networks in driving traffic and building long-term strategic value.
• Facebook, with its closed ecosystem, is contrasted with Twitter's open approach, suggesting that the future of social media lies in openness and decentralization.

The Role of Social Media in Democracy

The author argues that social media, particularly Twitter, plays a vital role in promoting democracy by facilitating decentralized communication, organizing crowds, and fostering public debates.

• He emphasizes the importance of open platforms that allow for free exchange of information and ideas, contrasting this with the control exerted by traditional media outlets and powerful individuals.
• The article cites examples of how social media was instrumental in revolutions in Tunisia, Egypt, Syria, and Iran, enabling citizens to organize and resist oppression.
• The author argues that social media helps people in places without rights see what life can be like in more open societies, fostering a desire for change.

The 2012 Election and the Future of Social Media

The article explores the significance of social media in the upcoming 2012 election, highlighting its potential impact on candidate campaigns and voter engagement.

• It suggests that social media campaigns in 2012 will be more sophisticated and innovative than those in 2008, with new tools and strategies emerging.
• The author expresses excitement about the potential for social media to further democratize politics and provide a platform for open discussions on issues such as job creation.
• The article highlights the role of social media in connecting job seekers with employers, specifically mentioning the open platform TweetMyJobs, which aims to connect job seekers and companies through social interest graphs.

Openness: A Key Attribute for Tech Companies

The author emphasizes the importance of openness as a key attribute for tech companies and argues that it will ultimately prevail over closed, walled gardens.

• He cites Google as an example of a company that initially embraced openness but later shifted towards monetizing its own services, suggesting a natural evolution towards closed systems.
• The article criticizes Facebook for its closed approach, implying that its dominance is temporary and that openness will ultimately win out.
• The author expresses hope that Facebook will embrace more open practices in the future, leveraging technologies like HTML5 and mobile to create a more open and connected experience.

The Importance of Openness in Politics and Society

The article concludes by reiterating the importance of openness in both politics and society, arguing that it is essential for a healthy democracy and a vibrant internet.

• The author emphasizes the need to resist the temptations of power and control, both in the media and in government, promoting the value of decentralized communication and citizen participation.
• He calls for continued innovation and experimentation in the realm of social media, exploring new ways to leverage its power to foster open dialogue, empower citizens, and promote social change.
• The article serves as a call for individuals, companies, and politicians to prioritize openness and collaboration in the digital age, recognizing its potential to shape a more just and equitable future.

The 2012 Election: A Catalyst for Openness

The article concludes by suggesting that the 2012 election presents a unique opportunity to promote and advance the principles of openness in politics and technology.

• The author encourages readers to engage in open discussions and debates around issues related to the election, using platforms like Twitter and TweetMyJobs.
• He believes that the 2012 election can be a watershed moment for social media, demonstrating its potential to transform politics and empower citizens.
• The article concludes with a call to action, urging readers to participate in the open dialogue and contribute to a more open and democratic future.