[synetic]

When it uses computers, networking protocols, the internet, etc. then it is a technology. The scale by which these virtual town squares can grow is something that sets them apart from real town squares. In a real town square people have to contend with societal views of what is socially acceptable. This provides a needed moderating influence. In a real town square one can’t be too inflammatory without fear of being attacked.

[cyanydeez]

So you're just defining the difference between who defines the tech. As placed like Twitter absolutely can act like a typical townsquare.

The only real difference is if the tech has the necessary tools.