The Fluidity Of Digital Spaces In Political Socialization: A Survey Study

Abstract

This study aims to examine the correlation between digital spaces, including platforms, social networks, and applications, and the processes of political mobilization and recruitment, which fall under the broader concept of political socialization. The power of the media has grown significantly with the emergence of virtual public spaces, and competition among these spaces to attract young people has intensified. This is achieved through the presentation of diverse ideologies targeting all segments of society, particularly youth at various age stages. This survey-based study seeks to identify the factors and motivations behind seeking political information from digital network spaces and to assess the extent to which these contents influence political behavioral trends. Additionally, the study aims to reveal the extent to which these spaces allow for the practice of both supportive and opposing political actions. The study draws on Oscar Negt's theory of the counterpublic sphere as an attempt to trace the fluidity of mobilization and recruitment through these virtual platforms. By limiting the research sample to followers of a political page, the study demonstrates that the internet, with all its services, is a powerful and effective tool for political socialization.