Heres a short article that I found that touches on socio-political activism on the internet. It also mentions the usage of the internet in the past election. (fyi--it was written prior to the election)
http://www.articlesbase.com/politics-articles/socio-political-activism-on-the-internet-612553.html
(Dr. Bob I still can't seem to figure out how to post these as hot links. When I post them into microsoft word it works but on here it doesnt, sorry everyone!)
Alot of what it says further reinforces what we've been saying about the Spier story.
"Opinions, blogs and buzz are all examples of new forms of media and information dissemination which have been spawned by the internet, and which empower groups with the means to reach new members and influence election outcomes."
The article also goes on to talk about Facebook and Twitter. "Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter now host a diversity of forums that are dedicated to the posting and sharing of ideas and opinions about the coming election and each candidate. On Facebook you can find photos, discussion boards and career biographies of both Obama and McCain." I remeber prior to the election seeing logos for each candiate come up on the side of my facebook which encouraged me to visit their sites, I think it was an excellent marketing tool considering how many of us spend such large amounts of time on facebook these days. I also just recently got a Twitter, and because it is constantly streaming updates it was a great way for the candidates to share what they were doing and where they were during their campaigns. Both Obama and McCain used Facebook and Twitter to generate support, solicit funds, and publicize their opinions and policies. Definately take a look at the article its short and interesting!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I definitely think that these types of social networking sites are very valuable to everyone. Businesses, groups and especially the candidates running for president. I think it connects very well with Zeke’s story, good post!
ReplyDeleteThat was a really good article Kait. I definitely agree that the Internet has been a really helpful tool in helping candidates gain exposure to larger and more diverse audiences. This past election was the first one I was able to vote in and I know that without the Internet (including sites like Facebook and Twitter), I would have been a lot less interested in finding out necessary information that I needed to make an informed decision. I'm sure a lot of people feel the same way too. When this information is right in front of you, there is no reason to avoid it and effectively forces you to get involved. It's like Zeke Spier said, "about 95% of the research I did was on the internet." There is so much information there and it is so easy to find and therefore makes it easier for everyone to become involved.
ReplyDeleteAwesome article -- the Internet allows people to self-select their own search options and therefore read what they subconsciously want to hear! Great post.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely a good read. I've heard in many lectures by leaders in the Technology field that this coming century will produce more change in the way the average human lives his/her life than in all of past human history. With applications like Twitter and Facebook enabling anyone and everyone to know of some change or declaration in the socio-political realm instantly, the positive feedback loop of change and progress can only accelerate at an exponential pace.
ReplyDelete