Welfare and Warfare: Contrasting Scenarios of Mobile Communication

Abstract

This paper illustrates the potential of communication technologies for institutional change, which can be found in the history of warfare, but could also become important for the future of welfare. Ethical, political and economic arguments are presented to assess existing and potential developments in warfare and welfare aiming at a more convivial and supportive society. After a sketch of various modes of historical warfare which became possible by - then - new information and communication technologies the paper reflects emerging problems contemporary defence strategies face. The citizens will become reluctant to pay for the high costs of military services if no real results can be seen. From the point of view of opportunity costs the defence budget is challenged by alternative, non-military use. As a long-term solution a war-preventing strategy is proposed which also allows using more financial means for the welfare system. But in fact the situation is not that simple. Even if more financial means would be available the welfare system is entering a state of crisis. Like in warfare information and communication technologies can be used to transform institutions and organisational forms, while the main intention of the welfare system remains in place. Examples are given how to restructure specific functions of the traditional welfare state. They are based on small groups (Targeted Intelligence Networks - TINs) linked to modern communication technology. TINs could give back responsibility to the citizen the welfare state has taken away from her/him in the past, and there is hope to strengthen the bonds of solidarity and reduce societal alienation.