Topic > We Must Fight Hate Propaganda on the Internet - 1207

We Must Fight Hate Propaganda on the Internet This essay addresses the issue of hostility to traditional American values ​​presented by the Internet. On a very deep level, the world of the Internet can sometimes seem indifferent and even hostile to morality. This is partly because Internet culture is so deeply imbued with a typically postmodern sense that the only absolute truth is that there are no absolute truths or that, if there were, they would be inaccessible to human reason and therefore irrelevant (1 ). The specific problem presented by the Internet is the presence of hateful sites dedicated to defaming and attacking religious and ethnic groups. Some of these target churches. Like pornography and violence in the media, hateful websites reflect the dark side of human nature. And while respect for freedom of expression may require tolerating even hateful voices to a certain extent, industry self-regulation and, where required, public intervention, should establish and enforce reasonable limits on what can be said publicly. Church-related groups should be present creatively on the Internet; and well-motivated and well-informed individuals and unofficial groups acting on their own initiative also have the right to be present. But it is confusing to say the least not to distinguish idiosyncratic doctrinal interpretations, idiosyncratic devotional practices, and ideological support that carries a specific ecclesial label, from the authentic positions of that Church. There needs to be "the development of an anthropology and a theology of communication"(2) with specific reference to the Internet. Christians, as concerned members of the vast Internet public who also have particular and legitimate interests, wish to be part of the process that guides the future development of this new medium. It goes without saying that this will sometimes require them to adapt their thinking and practice. It is also important that all people use the Internet creatively to take responsibility and contribute to fulfill your mission in life. Pulling back timidly, for fear of technology or for other reasons, is not acceptable, given the many positive possibilities of the Internet. Methods to facilitate communication and dialogue between people can strengthen bonds of unity between them. Immediate access to information makes it possible to deepen dialogue with the contemporary world. People occupying leadership positions in all sectors of society must understand the Internet, apply this understanding in formulating plans for social communications together with concrete policies and programs in this area, and make appropriate use of this medium.