#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

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)

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!

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

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)?

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?

Do not hesitate to contact me:

T.Denskus@ids.ac.uk

Blog:

http://www.aidnography.de

Twitter:

@aidnography

Thank you!