Inspired by Al Gore’s keynote at Web 2.0 Summit, the quality of Brian Solis’ thoughts on the social revolution for change deserve special recognition. The following is an excerpt from Brian’s post, but I encourage all to read his words in full on PR 2.0.
This election, as well as Gore’s passion for change, is the manifestation of decades of technological evolution. After all, this is about people. We witnessed the amalgamation of people, ideas, and the social technology that connected them and amplified their cause. This is an evolution, Gore believes, as do many of us, which was christened with the introduction of Gutenberg’s printing press.
It is arguably, the onset of the true democratization of information. The Social Web is simply the advancement of a paramount foundation that synthesizes an individual voice with an interconnected distribution platform where it’s heard, shared and fused with like-minded people and the idea-driven and passion-fueled collectives they represent.
His vision for the Web is its sense of “purpose,” which is how we can take the evolution of not only the technology that defines it, but also the people who use it to communicate with one another.
“I believe Web 2.0 has to have a purpose,” Gore observed.
I agree, but would simply say that “The Web,” socially rooted, must have a purpose. It’s not just about promoting brands, marketing at people, raising money, or electing politicians using new mediums and shiny new objects.
The Social Revolution is Our Industrial Revolution.
It is our chance to contribute to our history and our future by investing a piece of ourselves into what we create, embrace, and release to the world.
Our work and purpose is far from realized however.
The fact that the “Web’s candidate of choice won this time is no reason to rest easy,” Gore reminded us.
The democratization of media requires constant innovation and cultivation. Only through education and experience can we create a more literate society that bonds through knowledge.
“Just as Barack Obama’s election would’ve been impossible without the new dialogue and new ways of interacting–the Web–the only way (climate change) is going to be solved is by addressing the democracy crisis, and the country hit a great blow for victory this week, but we have to take this issue and raise it in the awareness of everyone,” Gore emphatically stated.
The online community is continuously developing its social norms. The controversial issue of advertising on Twitter is discussed on Old Media New Tricks. Robert Quigley says, “If you or your organization doesn’t understand Twitter and what makes it great, stay away from advertising until you do.” Check out the post to see five additional rules of thumb to follow when considering advertising on Twitter. And remember, “Give up the money before you give up your community.”
“This week socialmedian is proud to bring you special online access to the Monaco Media Forum,” says Jason Goldberg. The media forum is November 12 – 14 and topics to be covered include “emerging opportunities in technology, distribution and content, as well as the implications for marketing and finance.” For a full range of multimedia covering the event, check out the socialmedian blog.
How do you differentiate the friends that you know in person from friends you know online? Would you consider having an online friend that you’ve never met in person babysit your children? On his blog LouisGray.com, Louis says, “I believe people are inherently good, and I’ve chosen to interact with good people online, who share ideas, are trustworthy and positive to be around.” So go ahead, split a room with a friend you know only online at your next social media convention – if they wrong you, you’ll have the option of embarrassing them online.
Mike – Just wanted to drop a quick note thanking you for linking to Old Media, New Tricks. Rob and I are just getting started, and we’re glad some folks are noticing!
Well, folks like you, of course.