Does the death of distance have to mean the death of culture?

The authors examine the change in the nature of communication between individuals and between individuals and organisations. It is argued that mass media is fragmenting society and market domination by a few mega-corporations is distorting the balance that has existed between cultures. This dominance undermines the autonomy of governments and weakens the control that they may exercise. The weakening of government is compounded by international trade agreements, most notably the Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI). These trends are producing a monoculture and language at a high level and isolation of individuals. The paradox is that better communication is leading to individuals being more isolated from society and that more choice means less information. Combined with the role of mega-corporations this means that democracy will not be able to function. The documented decline of many languages is referred to and the authors present suggestions for the preservation of heritage and culture, arguing for Open Systems and Closed Networks.