Category: Social Media
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Short explainer – Janus-faced campaigning. What is it and why does it matter in the social media age?
Janus-faced campaigning refers to the practice of presenting different messages or positions to different audiences in order to appeal to a wider range of voters. This can be seen as a negative practice, as it can be seen as dishonest or insincere and lead to mistrust and cynicism among voters. The power of social media has further complicated the issue of Janus-faced campaigning, as it has made it easier for candidates and parties to present different messages to different groups of voters and spread misinformation or propaganda. It is important for candidates and parties to be transparent and honest in their use of social media in order to maintain trust and integrity in the electoral process.
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Short explainer – The decline of parties thesis and why it matters
The decline of parties thesis suggests that political parties, which have traditionally played a central role in democratic systems, are losing their influence and relevance. This trend is often attributed to a variety of factors, including the increasing individualization of society, the rise of social media and other forms of digital communication, and the increasing importance of issues that cut across traditional party lines. The decline of parties has significant implications for democratic systems, including the rise of populist movements, the increasing influence of special interest groups and wealthy individuals, and a decrease in the stability and effectiveness of democratic systems.
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Short explainer – What is the personalization of politics? What are the negatives and positives?
The personalization of politics refers to the focus on the personality and characteristics of political candidates, rather than on their policies and positions on issues. While personalization can have some positive effects, such as helping voters to relate to candidates and making politics more engaging for the general public, it can also have negative consequences, such as distracting from important policy discussions and creating a cult of personality around certain candidates. It is important for voters to consider both the personal and policy-related aspects of candidates when making their decisions at the ballot box.
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Short explainer – Why do politicians and parties use social media?
From campaign ads to viral memes, politicians and political parties are using social media to win elections and govern in the digital age. But what drives their use of these platforms, and how do they effectively connect with voters and shape public opinion? Our article delves into the strategies and tactics politicians and parties use to leverage social media, from influencer marketing to targeted advertising. We also examine the potential risks and challenges of using these platforms, and the role social media plays in shaping the modern political landscape.
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Short explainer – Do echo chambers (filter bubbles) exist on social media?
Are you trapped in a social media echo chamber? From personalized news feeds to targeted ads, the algorithms behind your favorite platforms are designed to keep you engaged and coming back for more. But at what cost? Our article explores the existence and effects of echo chambers on social media, examining how personalization algorithms and groupthink can influence the information we see and the opinions we form. From political polarization to the spread of misinformation, we investigate the potential risks and downsides of living in an internet bubble.
Tristan Hotham 