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Is Computer-Mediated Communication Intrinsically Apt to Enhance Democracy in Organizations?

Dipartimento di Psicologia Generale, Università Degli Studi di Padova, I-35139 Padova, Piazza Capitaniato 3, Italy

Recent studies on social and organizational processes involved in computer-mediated communication (CMC) are discussed. A technological deterministic approach, which views CMC as inherently apt to support democracy in organizations, is challenged. Claims about equal access, overcoming socialbarriers, openness and de-individuation, are critically examined with reference to up-to-date literature. Our point, consistent with sociotechnical theory, is that CMC, especially in E-mail use, can alter rhythms and patterns of social interactions in ways both powerful and pervasive, neither positive nor negative in themselves, but shaped by local contexts of use. Stress on social identity processes involved in CMC is suggested as relevant to further research.

Key Words: computer-mediated communication (CMC) • networks • democracy • equalization • de-individuation

Human Relations, Vol. 47, No. 1, 45-62 (1994)
DOI: 10.1177/001872679404700103


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