by P.W. Singer and Emerson T. Brooking
Introduction. Like War: The Weaponization of Social Media is a thought-provoking publication by authors P.W. Singer and Emerson T. Brooking, which was first released in October 2018. Renowned for their expertise in technology, defense, and foreign affairs, the authors delve into the transformative impact of social media on war, politics, and our daily lives.
Analysis. This book unfolds in a detailed, narrative manner, blending real-world examples with academic insight to expose the frightening reality of the digital battlefield. Singer and Brooking partition the book into well-structured sections that progressively deepen the reader’s understanding of the subject matter. Each chapter serves as a building block, starting from historical backgrounds of information warfare, to the rise of social media, and finally, its weaponization in modern warfare and politics. The authors explore how social media has changed the rules of engagement, especially in the cyber domain, by transforming every smartphone user into a potential warrior, influencer, or victim. The authors present compelling case studies, from ISIS’s social media recruitment strategies to Russia’s influence operations, and the role of online hate speech in the Rohingya crisis.
Evaluation. Like War can be polarizing due to its stark portrayal of social media as a tool for warfare. It also tends to highlight more of the harmful impacts of social media, which could strike some as imbalanced. For those holding more optimistic views about the potential of technology, this book may come across as alarmist or pessimistic. Yet, it is crucial to approach it with an open mind and understand that the authors aim to expose, rather than endorse, the weaponization of social media. The book does not shy away from the uncomfortable realities of our digital age, and this transparency is both its greatest strength and a potential source of controversy.
Conclusion. This book provides a comprehensive view of the complex relationship between social media and conflict. It’s an important read for anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of digital technologies on our societies and the nature of conflict. Its principles and insights are particularly applicable to policymakers, military strategists, or social media professionals who need to comprehend the potential risks and benefits of these platforms. The authors’ deep-dive into the trenches of the information war is a sobering reminder that the keyboard can be just as powerful as the sword.