E-democracy represents the use of information and communication technologies, such as the Internet and smart phones, to enable more active citizen participation in government decisions. Using information from the situation below, write a paragraph telling how websites, blogs, videos, webcams, and other Internet tools can help citizens share their points of view, “discuss” the options, and make the best decision for their town.
At the edge of town near Littleton, a large field is for sale. The town council is considering whether or not to buy the field and build a swimming and diving center for the town. However, a company in a nearby city wants the town council to pay part of the cost of buying the property for a factory. Unemployment has been growing in Littleton and the town could use the jobs. Finally, an environmental group wants the council to buy the field for nature paths and bike trails and as a safe habitat for the state bird.