But of course Facebook and Twitter are changing the world!

I'm a strong proponent of tools that empower individuals and groups. This includes Facebook and Twitter, both made viral by the real-time, always-on, hyperlocal, globally connected smartphone.  

So, naturally, I tend to side with those that say: of course Facebook and Twitter are aiding -- possibly enabling -- the massive protests that have been ongoing in the Middle East these past several months! How can you possibly say otherwise! Look at the feet on the street! See those crowds!

I only wish these same people, so smug, so quick to offer "proof" of their self-ordained rightness would show their faces now. Because Twitter and Facebook and Android phones and iPhones are still with us.

While another hundred Syrian protestors got shot down this weekend.