Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The advent of social media has revolutionized the way individuals engage with politics in modern democracies, offering new platforms for political participation and communication. This study seeks to explore the impact of social media on political participation and engagement in modern democracies. The research is guided by the overarching question How does social media influence political participation and engagement in modern democracies? Chapter One provides an introduction to the study, presenting the background, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of terms. Chapter Two comprises a comprehensive literature review that examines existing research on the relationship between social media and political participation, highlighting key theories and empirical findings. Chapter Three details the research methodology employed in this study, including research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter also discusses ethical considerations and limitations of the methodology. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, analyzing the impact of social media on political participation and engagement in modern democracies. The chapter explores the ways in which social media platforms influence political discourse, mobilization, and civic engagement. Chapter Five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, summarizing key findings, discussing implications for theory and practice, and suggesting avenues for future research. Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of literature on social media and politics, shedding light on the transformative potential of digital technologies in shaping political participation and engagement in modern democracies. Keywords Social media, political participation, engagement, modern democracies, digital technologies.

Thesis Overview

"The Impact of Social Media on Political Participation and Engagement in Modern Democracies" seeks to explore the intricate relationship between social media platforms and political engagement in contemporary democratic societies. The project delves into the transformative influence of social media on the dynamics of political participation, focusing on how these digital platforms have reshaped the landscape of political communication and citizen engagement. By investigating the role of social media in fostering political activism, mobilization, and awareness among individuals, the study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of digital technologies on democratic processes. Through an interdisciplinary approach that integrates insights from political science, communication studies, and sociology, this research project will assess the opportunities and challenges presented by social media in enhancing political participation and engagement. By examining case studies and empirical data from diverse democracies worldwide, the study will investigate the ways in which social media platforms have facilitated new forms of political expression, advocacy, and mobilization among citizens. Furthermore, the research will critically analyze the potential risks and limitations associated with the use of social media for political purposes, including issues related to misinformation, polarization, and privacy concerns. By exploring the complex interplay between social media, political actors, and citizens, the project aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the evolving relationship between digital technology and democratic governance. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to the existing scholarship on the impact of social media on political participation and engagement, offering valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges presented by these digital platforms in modern democracies. By shedding light on the transformative potential of social media for enhancing citizen involvement in political processes, the study aims to inform policymakers, scholars, and the general public about the implications of digital technologies for the future of democratic governance."