The Global Media
Robert Pascal OFM (28 January 2000)
A paper presented at a seminar in Karachi on Globalisation. Pascal Robert, a Franciscan, with a doctorate from Leuven, is president of the National Catholic Institute of Theology, Karachi.
The advancement in communication technology has reduced the distances between countries. Further, the flow of information, transfer of technology and growing trade between countries is creating a universal culture. Thus modern society has indeed become global. The prophets of globalisation proclaim that they are working towards political, social and economic harmony and stability between nations. To have access to each other’s country, market and information is considered a human right. The media in various forms plays an important role in the globalisation process. In fact one can call the present society an information society. Today the information of a simple event in one corner of world can be made known in seconds all over the world. This is possible due to the growing improvement in media; especially it is the work of the electronic media. Dish and satellite play an important role in spreading relevant information. The country which has the means and resources for transmission of and control over information technology can rightfully claim to be a developed country.
In this article we explore the role of the media in the globalisation process and the importance which information technology has in society. We shall point out who controls this technology and the power they exert over those who do not have access to advance information technology (information technology is the new power which in being used by industrial countries along with economic power which is used to advance one’s own interests). Further, we shall highlight the appalling information gap between the rich and the poor countries and between the elite and the masses in the globalisation process. Is this process not creating new kinds of misfits in the society? Finally, we shall ponder over the situation of Pakistan, its accessibility to advanced information technology and how it can benefit from its unavoidable influence.
Comments are closed.