Role of Internet in a Social Movement: Gezi Protests and Occupy Wall Street

Communication has always been a fundamental aspect of human existence. The ability to communicate effectively within a group enhances survival rates and improves living conditions. Over time, this inherent human instinct has led us to explore various means of communication, culminating in the advent of the internet. This transformation in communication has profoundly influenced our societies, reshaping social structures and compelling individuals to adopt new tools for expressing ideas and rallying for causes. The internet has revolutionized how people organize and resist injustices, becoming an essential element in social movements and protests over the past decade. This shift has raised significant questions about the nature of activism in the digital age.

Understanding Social Movements in the Internet Age

Social movements and revolutions play a crucial role in our societal history, holding significant importance for the field of sociology. They are products of society, making it essential to understand their dynamics to grasp societal functions. This essay focuses on the emerging methods of initiating movements and transforming them into revolutions. Manuel Castells, in his book “Networks of Outrage and Hope: Social Movements in the Internet Age,” examines new forms of protests that have emerged with the help of the internet and various communication systems. He analyzes the internet's importance in these movements, providing insights into how social platforms like Facebook and Twitter have fueled activism. This essay will delve into the role of the internet in initiating social movements, the necessity of traditional platforms, and the potential drawbacks of relying on digital spaces for activism.

Historical Context of Social Movements

Throughout history, individuals have fought for change for various reasons and in numerous ways. Regardless of the context, one commonality exists: people have always used every available tool to advocate for their beliefs. Social and political movements require robust networks to thrive. Every protest has been made possible through collective action and the ability to voice grievances regarding societal, governmental, or workplace issues. The reach of a movement is often proportional to its success; a larger audience translates to increased support and strength. Organizing against oppressive regimes demands exceptional communication and organizational skills. While the internet has emerged as a powerful tool, it is essential to recognize that it is not the sole medium through which activists can mobilize.

The Role of Traditional Media and Public Space

To illustrate the multifaceted nature of activism, we can examine notable social movements, such as the Tunisian revolution, Iceland’s protests, the Egyptian revolution, the Gezi Park movement in Turkey, and Occupy Wall Street. Each of these movements shares common elements, such as economic grievances, police brutality, and calls for equality. However, what distinguishes them from historical precedents is their adept use of the internet for communication and coordination.

While the internet has made disseminating information easier than ever, it raises questions about its effectiveness in reaching diverse audiences. The Egyptian revolution exemplifies this dynamic, as it did not rely solely on the internet for mobilization. The initial spark came from a vlog posted by a university student, which ignited a wave of activism among youth movements and Facebook groups. However, the revolution also leveraged traditional communication methods to engage those without internet access. Friday sermons, initially tied to religious practices, became vital for spreading awareness among older generations. Activists utilized this platform to inform and garner support, demonstrating the importance of reaching a broad audience.

Comparing Media Influence: Egypt vs. Turkey

One of the most powerful media influences during the Egyptian revolution was the news network Al Jazeera, which provided comprehensive coverage of the events, amplifying the protesters' voices globally. This support from mainstream media was crucial in legitimizing the movement and garnering international attention. In contrast, the Gezi protests in Turkey faced significant media censorship, with national broadcasters often ignoring or downplaying the events. The failure to provide accurate information to the public hampered the movement's ability to gain widespread support, leading to a disconnect between activists and the broader society.

Public Space vs. Digital Activism

The Occupy Wall Street movement serves as a case study in the interplay between digital activism and public space engagement. Initiated online, the movement gained traction through social media platforms, generating significant attention and support. The hashtag #occupywallstreet was instrumental in mobilizing participants, yet the physical occupation of public spaces became the movement's hallmark. David Harvey emphasizes the importance of public space in his analysis, arguing that occupying a physical location transforms it into a political commons, fostering open dialogue and collective action. Castells acknowledges the internet's role in organizing and mobilizing support but also highlights the necessity of physical presence for impactful activism.

Challenges of Digital Activism

While the internet has revolutionized activism, it also poses challenges. The phenomenon of 'keyboard activism' raises concerns about the commitment of supporters. Scholars like Jeroen Van Laer and Peter Van Aelst argue that online activism may detract from real-world engagement, leading to a superficial sense of solidarity. The ease of clicking 'like' or sharing a post does not equate to meaningful participation in protests or movements. Paolo Gerbaudo further critiques this trend, noting that while social media facilitates emotional connections, it often fails to translate sympathy into tangible action.

Conclusion: The Future of Activism

In conclusion, the internet has become an inseparable component of contemporary social movements. However, the effectiveness of movements like the Egyptian revolution and Occupy Wall Street underscores the importance of leveraging multiple platforms for success. Traditional media and public space remain vital for reaching diverse audiences and fostering genuine engagement. While the internet provides a powerful tool for mobilization, it cannot replace the impact of collective action in physical spaces. As activism continues to evolve in the digital age, it is crucial to recognize the limitations of online engagement and strive for a balance that fosters both virtual and real-world participation.

References:

• Castells, Manuel. "Networks of Outrage and Hope: Social Movements in the Internet Age."
• Harvey, David. "The Party of Wall Street Meets its Nemesis."
• Gerbaudo, Paolo. "Tweets and Streets: Social Media and Contemporary Activism."
• Van Laer, Jeroen, and Peter Van Aelst. "Internet and Social Movement Action Repertoires." Information, Communication & Society.