Another problem with information–technologically enabled communication–is its speed. A hundred years ago, you might have hours to days to absorb and analyze a piece of news or political development. Now, instant decisions must be made. Propaganda can make its effects felt immediately; contesting it and undoing its negative effects can take a lot of work, or be impossible.

I admire Andrew Breitbart for recognizing that fact. He does the only thing one can do: mount an instant counterattack. (That’s where Bush failed, in realizing that he was the first 21st century President and had to respond to attacks in a 21st century manner.)

If we hope to preserve any semblance of truth and reality in our information delivery, we had better be prepared to follow Breitbart’s lead.