The neo networks consist of a set of cascaded connections of variegated individuals having different backgrounds, characteristics, skill sets and social capital. These individuals are in digital relationship with each other either directly or through a number of intermediaries. The neo networks offer movements both in horizontal and vertical directions. It means an individual who is digitally known to a person, though inferior in social standing or social equivalence or intelligence, can still approach him or her and communicate without any hindrance. Since the individuals develop a sort of digital relationship with each other and are therefore in a digital-community-like association which keep them on the same grid or panel in terms of mobilisation and activity generation. Of course, individuals enjoying equity of peer-ship can establish a horizontal digital connection at will, without any obstacle. Each individual existing on horizontal or vertical grid enjoys a common objective which is shared mutually by all on the neo networks. This objective is usually pegged with an undeclared oath of allegiance for multiple reasons.
There is no geographical limitation in neo networks. It means a person sitting in New Delhi (India) can have digital relationship with an individual in Islamabad (Pakistan). The former can ask the latter about any query or question and the latter as a community obligation provides the requisite information as he or she is the most relevant person on the subject matter existing in vertical or horizontal grid. If the respondent exists on vertical structure, then he or she has to scoop the information from one of his or her local circles or acquaintances who possess the knowledge about the subject. However, if it is a horizontal or peer connection then the respondent may reply instantaneously without wasting any time. The neo networks are also studded with financial incentives in which sender and receiver gets something in return from the community digital platform for getting the job done in an efficient and effective way.
An advanced form of a neo network is that it becomes operated through Artificial Intelligence (AI). In such a case a sender may have a list of possible respondents in terms of their expertise, knowledge, skills and methods to address a question or a query depending upon its complexity, detail or format. The AI first processes the request and automatically finds the best available respondent for the sender on the grid. If the first chosen respondent fails to provide a satisfactory response, the AI brings forward another suitable candidate for satisfying the responder. At times, AI can put an intermediary connection on neo networks who can be accessed through a regular individual on grid to have the perfect information. In this way, a whole set of parallel digital territory without borders come into existence. Such networks can become a strong base for starting a movement or modulating opinion about an incident or occurrence at national or international level. These networks if become large enough can be a strong rallying platform for resolution of longstanding disputes between countries. A low-grade neo network is seen in action during Gaza war when people in all walks of life across nationalities, occupying important positions, have been observed supporting the Israeli military incursion irrespective of its brutality and sheer aggression.
The neo networks at an advance level may result into digital statehood where all individuals belonging to the same digital space irrespective of geographical presence and physical existence can become part and parcel of a digital principality. This may lead to digital citizenship in which people belonging to different countries can become one under such networks. The neo network operators can use various models to strengthen its activities. This can become a hyper-active intelligence collection, collation and dissemination structure for individuals, groups or organisations involved in monitoring and surveillance business.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 20th, 2023.
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