Geopolitical Information and Communications in the Twenty-First Century

This chapter examines the labels and symbols, worldviews, the “electronic state, " and the changing nature of geopolitical information in 1900, 2000, and 2100. Geopolitics is centered on the state, but the very definitions of state and nation are challenged by worlds made possible through advances in information and communication technologies. Geopolitical information and communication varies over time as well as space. Despite the advances in information and communications technology and the ongoing discussions about “global villages” and “instant” communications and news, some groups will still not be heard. The information produced is often a symbol of power, be it a state, a corporation, or a special interest group. Gatekeepers are those who are responsible for what information is produced. Five components are important in a study of the role played by the state in geopolitical information and communication: producers, gatekeepers, silenced voices, alternate voices, and consumers.