Networks Are A Modern Currency

Because of the development in micro-technologies and software-based communication, networks have grown to underpin and structure society as we know it (Castles, 2001, p 221). Technological development has undoubtedly been the most significant factor in characterising our generation, we have grown up with digital expertise embedded in our fibers. It is inevitable that the broader consequence of our technologically saturated existence would one day be investigated, scrutinised and published. Castles is one of the many scholars who have attempted to deconstruct the numerous consequences of this evolution. Prior to the MacBook, smart phone and I-Pad, traditional forms of networks were unaware of their limitations - old forms of social structure and organisations simply do not compare with the contemporary, fresh opportunities presented by modern platforms…

"Only under the electronic based

technological paradigm can networks reconfigure themselves in

real time, on a global–local scale, and permeate all domains of social life. This is why we live in a network society, not in an information society or a knowledge society"

(Castles, 2004, p 221)

Castles goes on to suggest that our society - in terms of social structure - can only be defined as - "networks powered by micro-electronics and software-based information and communication technologies" (2004, p 222). This title is rather complex, incorporating the idea of an information, knowledge and technological based society all in one. Which I believe is indisputably correct. If one is to succeed, they must engage and succeed in multiple areas. All three factors are co-dependant in todays' corporate and social world.  The consequence of this ideology include a focus on globalisation, and how each nation and culture becomes framed and shaped by the international social networks that underpin it, thus meshing and breaking through one unbreakable borders. Also the advantages that networks create for the corporate sphere - "Companies that do not or cannot follow this logic are outperformed and ultimately phased out by leaner, more flexible competitors" (Castles, 2004, p 222). The next point Castles illustrates is that the global networked sphere can act as a method to unite governing abilities, as each node plays a part in shaping decision-making, an area which I feel will expand and evolve dramatically within the next fre years. Activists utilize the networked outlets to achieve discussion and debate and further their reach, which touches on the idea of citizen journalism and how this platform is democraticising the globe. All of these along with virtual communities and online media are redefining time and space, and encouraging the need to co-experience life, which is all facilitated through societies adoption of and contribution to the networks.

Castles, M 2004, "Aftword: why networks matter," Nework Logic: Who governs in an interconnected world?, pp219-224
 [URL: http://www.kirkarts.com/wiki/images/5/51/Castells_Why_Networks_Matter.pdf]