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How has political communication changed over time and in what ways has it affected democracy?

Alisson Tidgewell

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Political communication has undergone significant changes over time, and this has resulted in both positive and negative impacts on democracy. The rise of social media platforms and the internet has completely transformed the way political communication takes place, offering a wide range of opportunities to citizens to engage in political discourse and to learn about the issues that matter to them.

One of the most significant changes that have occurred in political communication is the emergence of new forms of media and communication technologies. These new tools have made it much easier for political actors to communicate their messages across a wider audience, breaking down the traditional barriers that previously existed between voters and elected officials. Today, political communication can occur in real-time, across a vast digital landscape, in ways never before imagined.

However, the shift towards online political communication has not been without its challenges. The fragmentation of news sources and the rise of “filter bubbles” mean that individuals can now choose to consume only information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs. This can lead to political polarization, misinformation, and a deterioration of public trust in institutions of democracy.

Moreover, the internet has also enabled the rise of “fake news” and the manipulation of information. False information and propaganda are easy to disseminate, and in certain cases, they have been used to manipulate public opinion and deceive voters. This has further highlighted the need for critical thinking and media literacy among citizens.

Despite these challenges, political communication via social media has also facilitated greater transparency, participation, and accountability in democratic processes. New forms of political engagement have emerged, with citizens increasingly utilizing online tools to express their opinions, connect with like-minded individuals and engage in collective action.

In conclusion, political communication has undergone significant changes over time, with both positive and negative impacts on democracy. While the rise of new forms of media has facilitated greater transparency and participation, it has also brought about new challenges, such as political polarization and disinformation. Therefore, it is crucial that we continue to develop and refine our understanding of how political communication works in the digital age, to ensure democracy remains vibrant and robust.