Oral Culture and Computer Mediated Communcation:: Social Dynimcs of Mailing Lists

"This study of the many creative and often highly political ways in which Somalis use computer-mediated communications is the very first of its kind. Drawing on painstaking empirical research, deep knowledge of the Somali political, social, and cultural contexts, and informed and lucid analysis, Dr. Issa-Salwe has produced a text that will prove to be foundational in its field and an indispensable point of reference for future studies." Lidwien Kapteijns, Kendall/Hodder Professor of History, Wellesley College, Wellesley, USA "This study, which is the first of its kind, illustrates how mailing list technology and websites enable members of one Diaspora community kept in touch with a political situation at home that is exceptional. It also shows how the mailing list and website has brought a new dimension to traditional methods of feuding. Somali websites contain news, opinion pieces and other features in Somali and on some websites in Somali and English. Dr Issa-Salwe''s work reveals how the Somali web activity reflect the troubled history and politics of their homeland and continue to interest, involve, bring together and divide Somalis worldwide." Anthony Olden, Senior Lecturer of Information Management, Information Management Centre, Thames Valley University, United Kingdom