Media, technology 'rapidly transforming Arab culture'

Washington, Sept 20 (ANI): The Arab world is so addicted to television that western ideas are starting to transform Arab culture at a pace that might be too fast, says a researcher at Missouri University of Science and Technology.

"The information is free flowing," says Dr. Morris Kalliny, assistant professor of marketing at Missouri University of Science and Technology.

"There has been a transition from state-controlled media to almost complete freedom when it comes to accessing information. People are still trying to figure out how to handle it," the expert added.

Kalliny, who conducts research on advertising and media in the Arab world, says most Arabs who can afford a satellite dish have one in their yard. Because there are no regulations in place, this means thousands of channels are available for free.

"You still can't access pornography in some of the Arab countries on the Internet. But you can get it on TV," Kalliny says.

The expert says younger generations tend to embrace technology and western ideas, while older Arabs are more conservative.

"It's really not much different than in the U.S.. You're going to get two extremes," he said. (ANI)