Political Participation on Social Media: The Lived Experience of Online Debate

This book explores the lived experience of discussing politics online, based on original research with 85 participants in the UK. It shows how personal feelings, needs, and concerns influence online engagement, and how participants struggle with self-awareness and understanding the motives and actions of others. Social media is an unprecedented learning environment, allowing people to better understand their behavior and that of others and adapt over time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 217 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate realm of people's lived experiences when engaging in political discussions online. Through extensive original research involving in-depth conversations with a diverse group of 85 participants across the United Kingdom, it seeks to unravel the complex tapestry of their online engagement, with a particular focus on major political events and related debates. The study explores how individuals perceive and navigate their online interactions, shedding light on the diverse range of factors that shape their experiences. It emphasizes the importance of personal feelings, needs, and concerns alongside broader political considerations, recognizing the intricate interplay between these elements.

Participants in the study grapple with self-awareness and a deeper understanding of the motivations and actions of others, which profoundly impact their behavior and perceived efficacy. The constraints imposed by social media platforms add an additional layer of complexity to the communication dynamics, resulting in a rich tapestry of interactions characterized by crosstalk and misunderstandings. However, despite these challenges, social media continues to emerge as an unprecedented learning environment, enabling individuals to gain a deeper insight into their own behavior and that of others.

As individuals navigate this dynamic online landscape, they adapt and evolve, learning from their experiences and refining their approaches to political discourse. The study highlights the transformative power of social media in shaping individuals' perspectives and fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry. It underscores the importance of empathy, critical thinking, and open dialogue in navigating the complexities of political discussions in the digital age.

In conclusion, this book offers a profound exploration of people's lived experiences in the realm of political discussions online. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, it sheds light on the diverse factors that shape individuals' engagement, highlighting the complexities, challenges, and opportunities that arise in this digital age. It serves as a valuable contribution to our understanding of the evolving landscape of political communication and its impact on society.

Weight: 392g
Dimension: 156 x 220 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030652203
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021