Introduction
Politics has always been about power and influence, but in today’s world, much of that power is exercised through digital platforms and technologies. From online elections to global activism, the connection between Digital Society and global politics is one of the most important themes in the IB course.
This article explores how IB Digital Society examines the political impact of technology, and why students need to understand these links to become informed global citizens.
Quick Start Checklist: Digital Society & Politics
- Elections and democracy: Social media, misinformation, and influence.
- Activism: Movements amplified by digital tools.
- Surveillance: State control vs. individual freedom.
- Global power: Technology companies shaping politics.
- Ethics: Balancing security, rights, and accountability.
Technology in Elections and Democracy
One of the most visible impacts of digital society is on democracy itself:
- Political campaigns now rely heavily on social media advertising.
- Issues of fake news and misinformation influence voting.
- Data-driven microtargeting raises questions of fairness.
Digital Society encourages students to analyze whether technology strengthens or weakens democratic systems.
Digital Activism and Movements
Technology empowers global activism by giving movements new tools:
- Hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo spread awareness.
- Digital platforms allow global coordination of protests.
- Online petitions and campaigns reach audiences beyond borders.
Students explore how digital activism brings change, but also how it faces challenges like censorship.
Surveillance and State Power
Technology also enables governments to monitor and control populations:
- Mass data collection and facial recognition.
- National security measures vs. personal privacy.
- Authoritarian use of technology to suppress dissent.
This raises ethical debates central to Digital Society.
The Role of Tech Companies in Politics
Power is no longer only in governments — global tech giants shape politics too:
- Platforms like Facebook and Twitter influence public debate.
- Algorithms decide what information is most visible.
- Corporate lobbying affects laws and digital rights.
Students learn to question the balance of power between states and corporations.
Global Power Dynamics
Digital tools shift power not just within nations but across them:
- Countries compete for leadership in AI and 5G.
- Cybersecurity becomes part of international relations.
- Digital inequalities widen the gap between nations.
This global perspective fits directly into the IB’s emphasis on international awareness.
Why Politics Matters in Digital Society
Understanding the link between technology and politics prepares students to:
- Recognize threats to democracy.
- Evaluate the role of digital tools in activism.
- Think critically about ethical dilemmas in governance.
This theme ensures students are ready to engage with political issues in a digital-first world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Digital Society similar to Global Politics?
They overlap, but Digital Society focuses specifically on how technology shapes politics, while Global Politics is broader.
Q2: Do students study specific political case studies?
Yes. Teachers often use elections, activism, or surveillance examples from around the world.
Q3: Can this theme be linked to my IA?
Definitely. Many students choose political topics like misinformation or digital activism for their research.
Q4: How does this connect to TOK?
It links to TOK discussions on truth, knowledge, and how power shapes what we believe.
Q5: Is this useful for future careers?
Yes. It’s relevant to careers in law, politics, international relations, and media.
Conclusion
The link between Digital Society and global politics is central to understanding how technology shapes power, democracy, and governance today. By studying elections, activism, surveillance, and corporate influence, IB students gain the tools to think critically about political systems in a digital world.
Call to Action
Want to explore the political side of IB Digital Society more deeply? RevisionDojo provides case studies, strategies, and exam support to help you master this vital theme.
