Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Social media has become an integral part of modern society, transforming the way people communicate, interact, and mobilize for various causes. This thesis investigates the role of social media in political mobilization and activism, focusing on how online platforms have empowered individuals and groups to engage in political activities and advocate for social change. Through a comprehensive literature review and empirical research, this study aims to provide insights into the impact of social media on political participation and activism. The introduction sets the context for the study, highlighting the growing influence of social media in shaping political discourse and mobilizing individuals for collective action. The background of the study provides a theoretical framework for understanding the role of social media in political mobilization, drawing on key concepts from communication studies, political science, and sociology. The problem statement identifies the gaps in existing research and highlights the need to explore the specific mechanisms through which social media facilitates political mobilization and activism. The objectives of the study include examining the impact of social media on political engagement, analyzing the strategies used by activists to leverage online platforms, and assessing the challenges and limitations of digital activism. The literature review synthesizes existing research on social media and political activism, exploring the ways in which online platforms have been used to organize protests, raise awareness about social issues, and influence political decision-making. Key themes include the democratizing potential of social media, the role of online networks in shaping collective identities, and the challenges of digital surveillance and censorship. The research methodology outlines the approach taken in this study, including data collection methods, sample selection criteria, and data analysis techniques. Through a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of social media in political mobilization and activism. The discussion of findings presents the results of the empirical research, highlighting the key findings and insights gained from the analysis of data. Themes explored include the impact of social media on political awareness and engagement, the role of online networks in fostering solidarity and collective action, and the challenges faced by activists in navigating the digital landscape. The conclusion summarizes the key findings of the study and reflects on the implications for future research and practice. This thesis contributes to the existing literature on social media and political activism by providing a nuanced understanding of the ways in which online platforms shape political mobilization and advocacy efforts. The findings have important implications for policymakers, activists, and scholars seeking to harness the potential of social media for social and political change.

Thesis Overview

The Role of Social Media in Political Mobilization and Activism Research Overview: The advent of social media has revolutionized the way individuals and groups communicate, share information, and mobilize for various causes, including political activism. In recent years, social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube have played a significant role in shaping political discourse, mobilizing support for social movements, and influencing political outcomes around the world. This research project aims to explore the impact of social media on political mobilization and activism, with a focus on understanding how these platforms are used to engage citizens, amplify voices, and effect change in the political landscape. The project will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine existing research on the role of social media in political mobilization and activism. This review will cover key theories and concepts related to social media usage in political contexts, as well as case studies and empirical evidence that demonstrate the effectiveness of social media in driving political action. By synthesizing and analyzing the existing literature, the research aims to identify gaps in knowledge and develop a theoretical framework to guide the empirical investigation. The research methodology will involve a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of social media data with qualitative interviews and surveys of political activists, organizers, and social media users. This approach will enable a comprehensive understanding of how social media platforms are utilized for political mobilization, the strategies and tactics employed by activists, and the impact of social media on political participation and engagement. By collecting and analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data, the research aims to provide a nuanced and in-depth analysis of the role of social media in shaping political mobilization and activism. The findings of the research project will be presented and discussed in detail in the fourth chapter of the thesis. This chapter will explore key themes and patterns that emerge from the data analysis, including the types of content shared on social media, the reach and impact of political messages, and the factors that contribute to successful mobilization efforts. By examining the findings in the context of existing literature and theoretical frameworks, the research aims to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of social media in driving political activism and shaping political outcomes. In conclusion, this research project seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the role of social media in political mobilization and activism. By examining the ways in which social media platforms are used to engage citizens, amplify voices, and effect change in the political landscape, the research aims to provide insights that can inform future strategies for political organizing and activism in the digital age. Ultimately, the project aims to shed light on the opportunities and challenges presented by social media for political mobilization and activism, and to offer recommendations for leveraging these platforms effectively to advance social and political causes.