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“More robust public support for the fourth estate would produce even greater freedom and diversity. In direct contradiction of stereotypes about the chilling effects of “state-controlled media,” countries enjoying such support are home to an unimpeded and vibrant press.”
― Astra Taylor, The People’s Platform: Taking Back Power and Culture in the Digital Age

“There is no such thing as a public Internet: everything flows through private pipes. However, using the Internet for the consumption of culture or to search for information is nearly as essential to participating in modern life as having electricity or plumbing in your home”
― Astra Taylor, The People’s Platform: Taking Back Power and Culture in the Digital Age

“given not just a chance to speak but to be heard. A more democratic culture is one where previously excluded populations are given the material means to fully engage. To create a culture that is more diverse and inclusive, we have to pioneer ways of addressing discrimination and bias head-on, despite the difficulties of applying traditional methods of mitigating prejudice to digital networks.”
― Astra Taylor, The People’s Platform: Taking Back Power and Culture in the Digital Age

“While some have suggested that crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter can replace government agencies to do much of this work, such a view is shortsighted. Crowdfunding allows individual creators to raise money from their contacts, which gives well-known and often well-resourced individuals a significant advantage. In contrast, a government agency must concern itself with the larger public good,”
― Astra Taylor, The People’s Platform: Taking Back Power and Culture in the Digital Age