Information Technology in Politics

Information technology is also called “information communication technology.” It refers to any kind of technology that can be utilized to acquire, produce, process, store, and disseminate information. Mass media (such as newspaper, motion picture, radio, and television), computers, the Internet, satellites, cellular phones, fax machines, and CD-ROMs and DVDs are a few examples of information technology.

In contemporary society, politics and information technology are inextricably linked. This entry focuses on a few information technologies that are considered central to changes in the conduct of contemporary politics: print media, electronic media, and emerging media. Specifically, it examines the role of these technologies in American politics with an emphasis on campaigns and elections. These information technologies, arguably, have had and continue to have a pro-found impact on American politics, in both positive and negative ways. Communicative activity is central to all politics. Without information technology, contemporary political communication is impossible.