Rebecca MacKinnon (“Networked Authoritarianism”) challenges the view that the internet and social media will liberate Chinese citizens from government control of public discourse. Brady and Wang go even further and suggest that a modernized propaganda system has yielded a new persuasive form of ‘popular authoritarianism.’ Do you find these views persuasive? Why? Why not? Consider the interview with the “Internet Commentator” in developing your answer (Readings for June 13)
