From Memes to Movements: How Social Media Shapes Collective Action

Abstract

This article explores the transformative impact of social media on collective action in the 21st century. Examining case studies of movements such as #Black Lives Matter and Me Too, we argue that social media platforms have emerged as crucial tools for mobilization, communication, and identity formation within activist communities. Through the lens of "viral memes" and "micro-participation," we analyze how social media facilitates the spread of ideas, fosters solidarity, and enables individuals to contribute to collective action in previously unimaginable ways. However, we also acknowledge the potential pitfalls of echo chambers, misinformation, and manipulation within these online spaces. Ultimately, this article calls for a nuanced understanding of how social media can empower and hinder collective action, urging further research into its complex interplay with traditional offline activism.