Abstract:
Social media allows a wider, faster diffusion of protests, without the need of traditional organizers and established media. The speed, scale, and decentralization of social media-enabled protests also bring fragility: big turnout, weak strategy, and modest policy wins. Social media-driven protests keep democracies healthy by increasing accountability, inclusivity, and resilience. These mechanisms can also be exploited by extremists spreading hate and lead to real-world violence. Governments can use the increased potential for civic mobilization to strengthen democracy with well-designed regulations.
