Computers and Society Overview The Use and ]mpac¢ of CompuCer Technology en Polidcal Elecdens Dermis K. Agboh Morgan State Universi~, Baltimore, Maryland (410) 3]9-394] ~troduction There is concern over the decline in voter turnout since 1972 [League of Women Voters (LWV) 1992], [Mackenzie 1992], [Pear 1992]. Some researchers blame the decline on difficulties in voter registration and the voting system, and voter apathy [Kassicieh, Kawaguchi, and Malczynski, 1988], [Piven 1988], [Rosen 1988]. Page 21 March 1994 Computer technology provides powerful tools for enhancing many aspects of the present electoral process; however, computer applications sometime pose some unacceptable risks [Dugger 1988], [Kassicieh et al. 1988], [Mercuri t992], [Neuma~m 1990]. Critics of computer use in elections claim that it is prone to error, and poses a great security risk. Kassicieh et al [1988], believe that the administrative and voting processes influence the voters' perceptions of major issues, including the stands of the candidates. They also emphasized that these factors could also influence participation in elections and the integrity of the outcome. This paper examines the technological advances in the application of computers and telecommunication in the electoral process, and how these impact the candidates, voter participation, and the outcome of
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