How the Internet Promotes Self-organized Collective Actions

Abstract

Research on collective actions, its underpinnings and dynamics, flourished in the last decades and stimulated contributions from a multitude of disciplines. I commence Chapter 1 by introducing two common conceptualizations of collective actions that emphasize the relevance of a formal group to coordinate and structure collective actions. Following Bennett and Segerberg (2012), the participatory Internet promotes — rather than organization-brokered collective actions — self-organized engagement. More precisely, the Internet allows individuals to access information to develop personal action frames, fostering collective actions that are driven by unique aspirations and not group agendas. In addition, social media platforms may take on the role of cause-related, advocacy, and movement organizations, affording connections and communication between supporters.