Our understanding of water is an evolving picture," Pettersson says. "Further research by many different groups is needed before this exciting and important journey can end." With so much to gain, who could disagree?

First, they allow people to become active speakers and creators instead of merely passive consumers of information and entertainment. Second, they decentralize innovation, giving people abundant opportunities to create and use new applications for communication and creativity. Third, they allow people to form new kinds of social relationships, groups and communities.

In short, digital networks allow people to participate in culture, society, and politics in ever new ways: individually or in groups, locally, nationwide, or around the world. The ability to participate is the Internet’s great gift to mankind.

I just re-stumbled upon this post by the freedom of speech group, Fact. In our own very small way, we are trying to encapsulate these sentiments with The Guarani Project.

The involvement of the audience, particularly on social issues that affect us all, is very important. And the internet makes that easier. We should seize that chance and applaud the fact that the internet has made the gatekeeper redundant.

I say this as a journalist, and some people challenge me on this fact, accusing me of being inconsistant. But I think that all journalists should embrace the direct interaction between them and the reader. Gone are the days of the editorial voice that says "I know it all and I'm going to share a bit of it with you." Today's journalist seek a voice that allows for exploration and change: "I thought.... and know I think..."