Alternative media
During times of
universal deceit, telling the truth is revolutionary.
George Orwell
In contrast to
the ordered and controlled
world of the mainstream media, the alternative media environment can
seem to be
chaotic and disorganised. But it is characterised by a sense of
vitality and
commitment which gives it a very different nature. It stands apart from
the
mainstream media because it seeks to help people rather than to use
them. Also,
many voices are heard, not just a few. And many of them are protesting,
calling
out for a more just and responsible world.
The alternative
media is most commonly found
on the Internet. It takes a variety of forms – alternative
news sites, forums, blogs,
wikis, zines. Unlike the mainstream media, there is a great
deal of
discussion and experimentation going on. Some of this debate is focused
on the
Internet itself. The mainstream media and their government allies are
trying to
seize control of the Internet in order to harness it for political and
profit-making
purposes. So, an important battle is being waged to keep the Internet
as a
vehicle for free expression, creativity and dissent.
Like its mainstream counterpart, the alternative media is often misguided. But it does try to give a freer voice to people in all counties. Now, individuals and communities can make themselves heard, even if they are being oppressed at home. As this chorus of voices continues to grow, so do the many possibilities for change and improvement throughout the world.