Presentation at University of King's College, Halifax/NS for a jourmalism ethics class at the School of Journalism

1. #Kony2012, social media &
the ethics of DIY development
Tobias Denskus, Ph.D.
Institute of Development Studies (IDS),
University of Sussex
University of King’s College, 14 March 2012

2. Additional details to Kevin’s introduction
Peace researcher & anthropologist of
development
PhD project: How peacebuilding has become
a ritualised space. An aidnography from
Germany and Nepal
Research on social media and development
(blogging as reflective writing; Tweets &
global conferences)

3. Three levels to engage with Kony 2012
Factual level – Don’t believe the hype
Social media level – We don’t believe the
hype
International development level-
Take the hype seriously!

4. Don’t believe the hype
Children, war & the bad guy…development
is more complicated
‘Three cups of tea’ & and the power of a
single narrative (schools in Afghanistan)
Despite ‘the Internet’ and development
social media the documentary uses a
emotional approach successfully

5. We don’t believe the hype
Amazingly detailed, global, viral and varied
critique from the ‘blogosphere’
Indication of the increasing knowledge of a
new generation on development issues
outside traditional media and institutions
What is the relationship between a
problematic ‘product’ and the follow-up
reflections and discussions
(impact, accountability, social change)?

6. Take the hype seriously!
The ‘Oprah moment’ – a nightmare for every
fundraiser?
DIY aid and the changing landscape of
(North American) philanthropy
How can ‘old’ and ‘new’ campaigns and
development initiatives cooperate?
What are some of the implications for
researchers, teachers, students & aid
professionals?

7. Thank you!
Do not hesitate to contact me:
T.Denskus@ids.ac.uk
Blog:
http://www.aidnography.de
Twitter:
@aidnography