Human Rights and the Internet: Three World Views
Since the introduction of the internet, many concerns have been expressed. One of these deals with the effectiveness of this new technology. Do the information and capabilities available through the internet make a difference in the world? Some see this technology becoming more of a means of entertainment, such as television. Others argue that it is a valuable resource because it provides access to information that might otherwise remain inaccessible. This is especially important in the area of human rights. Through the world wide web, information is presented to promote awareness of human rights violations worldwide. This information often includes graphic photos of genocide and torture victims. Some feel this may move people to take action against such violence, while others argue it has no effect and is only contributing to the negative impression the internet is making. The internet has also proven to be effective in promoting the causes of human rights activists through the rapid communication provided by electronic mail. Whether the internet seems to be having a positive or negative effect on the human rights issue, the effects of this technology are viewed differently all over the world.
The conservative world view places the importance of societal order above all
other objectives. Also important are the preservation of the status quo and respect
for the sovereignty of other states. From this point of view there is no such thing as
human, or "natural," rights. The conservative "seeks above all for government, and
regards no citizen as possessed of a natural right that transcends his obligation to
be ruled" (Scruton, 16). Conservatism holds that there "...are only rights where there are obligations," (Scruton, 49) and the only obligation of the government is to maintain an orderly society. Also, because each state has sovereignty, independent from all others,
one state is by no means obligated to provide its citizens with the same "rights"
as those of other states (Scruton, 49).
From a conservative stance, the internet may prove subversive, as the information it provides may upset society societal order. Problems can arise when citizens receive news of
human rights violations, in their own country or elsewhere. Upon hearing of such activity, the citizens of a state may go to their government, either complaining about domestic human rights violations, or requesting action on behalf of victims in another country. This goes against the conservative view by causing a disruption in the order of society, or suggesting one state interfere with the sovereignty of another.
Liberalism values individual liberty more than anything else. From this stance,
"the chief end of government is to uphold the liberty, equality, and security of all
citizens" (Schapiro, 10). These are "inviolable, inalienable, and universal rights which should be secured to all persons (Schapiro, 11). Liberals work to end human rights violations and encourage respect for individuals.
Because liberalism places such importance on human rights, the internet is
seen as a valuable resource. Not only does it grant liberty through the information
access it provides, but it also helps further the causes of human rights activists.
The internet provides capabilities and information which bring to light the violation of human rights worldwide so that they may be appropriately dealt with.
The revolutionary world view places emphasis on social order, just as the
conservative view. However, importance is placed on classes as units, rather than
individuals. Where the conservative seeks to preserve the status quo, the
revolutionary seeks to overthrow it. Current structures are looked to be replaced
with new ones, providing justice for the "proletariat," the working class.
Revolution is almost alway associated with violence - the violation of human rights is common in this struggle for change.
While the internet can be useful in promoting the revolutionary cause, this
technology can become a threat once the revolutionary system has been established.
From this stance, the internet is dangerous because it provides access to a variety
of outside influences, which revolutionists seek to shut out.
Whether the internet is seen as having a positive or negative influence depends
on the point of view from which it is observed. Regardless, this technology plays
an important role in the area of human rights.
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