Information

Information is an important part of our society. People depend on it to guide them through a complex world. The invention of movable type in 15th century Europe revolutionized the communication of ideas. This invention made it possible to print and publish information to masses of people. This free flow of information eventually led to a free press in many parts of the world. But because information is so powerful, many world leaders have tried to stop it. French leader Napoleon Bonaparte once said he feared four newspapers more than 1,000 bayonets. The Chinese emperor who oversaw the building of the Great Wall famously used his power to stop published information. Qin Shi Huang ordered the burning of thousands of books on subjects he wanted to keep from the people. He even had hundreds of scholars executed for refusing to give up their book collections. But when true information is allowed to reach the people, good results can follow. Information has fueled successful revolutions in many nations. Government atrocities have been identified and world leaders have been forced to be held accountable for their actions. Advances in media technology have made words and images more powerful and widespread than ever. Smart phones and social media have become quick and easy tools to receive and share news and information. These tools have even made it possible for anyone with a device to gather and publish news.