Introduction
The characters of Peter and Valentine Wiggin from Ender's Game possess exceptional intelligence and a deep understanding of global politics. If such individuals existed in the real world, which platform would they most likely use to create their political personas? This article explores the most probable modern-day platforms and strategies they might adopt.
Understanding the Context
First, it’s worth mentioning that Peter and Valentine’s political personas from Ender's Game relied heavily on the fictional "nets," which bear striking resemblance to the modern-day internet. However, these were not the internet as we know it today. If Peter and Valentine were to create internet personas in the real world, they would face significant challenges due to the transparency and accountability of modern internet platforms.
Challenges of Modern Platforms
Take, for instance, the scenario where Peter and Valentine attempted to influence global politics through the modern internet. xkcd provides a humorous yet insightful take on how such an endeavor might succeed: imagine a letter on Reddit:
Image credit: Locke and Demosthenes
Alt text: Dear Peter Wiggin: This letter is to inform you that you have received enough up votes on your Reddit comments to become president of the world. Please be at the UN tomorrow at 8:00 sharp.
Well, it’s clear that such an outcome would be absurd in the real world. In the book, Valentine never could have become Demosthenes without Peter’s influence, and even then it was more of a manipulation game.
Creating a Political Persona: Real-World Strategies
If Peter and Valentine were to establish their political personas in the real world, they would likely choose platforms that allow for detailed, informative, and thought-provoking content. Here are the most probable strategies:
1. Personal Website
Peter and Valentine would create a personal website where they could post in-depth essays on various political issues. This platform would also serve as a central hub for their online presence. They could maintain a blog where they share their thoughts, opinions, and insights on current events and political topics. Since they are deeply interested in world affairs, this would be an ideal medium for them to share their knowledge and engage with their audience.
2. Social Media Platforms
They would leverage various social media platforms to build their audience and interact with their followers. However, they would focus on platforms that allow for longer, more detailed content and personal expression. For instance, they would have active accounts on Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok, but they would spend the most time on platforms like YouTube and Medium where they could create video essays or publish long-form articles.
3. YouTube Channel for Video Essays
Peter and Valentine would have an active YouTube channel, where they would create video essays without lengthy camera work. They would use a combination of narration and relevant clips or animations to explain their points. This format would allow them to connect with their audience on a deeper level and provide valuable insights. For instance, they could create a series of video essays that analyze political trends, present counterarguments to popular opinions, or provide thought-provoking commentary on global events.
4. Participation in Academic and News Discussions
They would also participate in academic and news discussions on platforms such as Reddit, Blogger, and other news forums. These platforms would allow them to engage in meaningful discussions and build a network of knowledgeable followers. They could contribute to debates, share insights, and showcase their expertise on various political topics.
5. Quora Account for In-depth QA
In addition to the YouTube channel, they would have an active Quora account. Quora allows for in-depth QA sessions, where they could answer user questions and provide detailed explanations. This platform would be perfect for them to demonstrate their knowledge and engage with individuals who are genuinely interested in political discourse. They could also contribute to Quora’s “Expert” program, increasing their visibility and credibility.
6. Prestigious University and Writing
As they progress through their academic journey, Peter and Valentine would attend a prestigious university like Harvard or Oxford. They would actively participate in academic discussions, publish papers, and write books. This would not only enhance their credibility but also provide them with an audience. Even if their books don’t become bestsellers, they would have a dedicated following, and their writings would likely receive positive reviews and moderate sales.
Conclusion
In the real world, Peter and Valentine would face significant challenges in establishing their political personas. However, by leveraging modern internet platforms such as personal websites, social media, YouTube, and Quora, they could build a strong network and audience. This would serve as a launching pad for their future political careers. While they might not become the president of the planet as teenagers, they could certainly lay the groundwork for a successful career in politics.