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Why We Should Distinguish Between Mobilization and Participation When Investigating Social Media

Author

Listed:
  • Jörg Haßler

    (Department of Media and Communication, LMU Munich, Germany)

  • Melanie Magin

    (Department of Sociology and Political Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Norway)

  • Uta Russmann

    (Department of Media, Society and Communication, University of Innsbruck, Austria)

Abstract

In the recent past, social media has become a central channel and means for political and societal mobilization. Mobilization refers to the process by which political parties, politicians, social movements, activists, and other political and social actors induce citizens to participate in politics in order to win elections, convince others of their own positions, influence policies, and modify rulings. While not sufficient on its own for facilitating participation, mobilization is necessary for participation to occur, which justifies examining mobilization specifically to understand how people can be involved in politics. This thematic issue of Media and Communication presents various perspectives on the role of social media in mobilization, embracing both its recruitment side (traditional and non-established political actors, social and protest movements) and its network side (the ways citizens respond to mobilization appeals). Taken together, the thematic issue highlights the multifaceted nature and scholarly fruitfulness of mobilization as an independent concept.

Suggested Citation

  • Jörg Haßler & Melanie Magin & Uta Russmann, 2023. "Why We Should Distinguish Between Mobilization and Participation When Investigating Social Media," Media and Communication, Cogitatio Press, vol. 11(3), pages 124-128.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:meanco:v11:y:2023:i:3:p:124-128
    DOI: 10.17645/mac.v11i3.7285
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