Can We Really Have an Online COMMUNITY?

The Internet could not only fully duplicate offline democratic procedures and outcome, but it could improve upon them. It would be much easier online than offline for millions not merely to gain information and to vote, but also to participate in deliberations and in instructing their chosen representatives.

The internet provides a venue for a community without borders, though how thick and cohesive a virtual community can become is debatable. With full disclosures of identity through online signatures and verification procedures, strong communities can be created and sustained.

NOTES TO PONDER: Can real, as opposed to virtual, relationships exist online? What holds people accountable to the identities they become online?