Social Media and Democracy: The State of the Field, Prospects for Reform

The impact of social media on democracy has been the subject of much research, and this book is the first to synthesize this knowledge and chart a course for future inquiry. Chapters by leading scholars cover major topics and canvass existing reform proposals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 03 September 2020
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Over the past five years, there has been a significant surge in research exploring the impact of social media on democracy, driven by widespread concerns about its effects on political systems. This book stands as a pioneering effort in consolidating and analyzing the diverse range of knowledge emerging from various disciplines within academia. By synthesizing existing findings, identifying areas of uncertainty, and outlining challenges to future research, it provides a comprehensive overview of this rapidly evolving multi-disciplinary field.

Chapters authored by esteemed scholars cover a wide array of topics, including disinformation, hate speech, and political advertising. These chapters contextualize recent developments within the broader framework of key policy concerns, shedding light on their implications for democracy. Additionally, the book examines existing reform proposals aimed at addressing the perceived threats posed by social media to democratic institutions.

This title is not only a valuable resource for scholars and researchers but also accessible to a broader audience through Open Access on Cambridge Core. By making this knowledge freely available, the book aims to promote greater understanding and dialogue about the complex relationship between social media and democracy, fostering a more informed and engaged public discourse.

Weight: 552g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108812894