Mediated Social Change & Privacy in the Digital Era
In “Affective Publics,” I found the author’s argument about the importance of “publics networked digitally but connected discursively” (p. 5) during digitally-mediated revolutions, such as in Greece on November 17, 1973, as essential. It is not the media that has the power to make social change, but the conversations and affective narratives occurring between groups through these innovative means. In this case, the narratives surrounding democratic rights are what attract global attention and escalate authoritarian governments’ pressure to fall and crumble. I agree with the author’s argument on the importance of emotional discourse when using media as a tool for reform.
Digital media’s role in social change
I connected the usage of technological mediums to promote social change in Greece, as discussed in “Affective Publics,” to the Egyptian Uprisings of 2011. Although these protests involved more innovative tools and platforms such as cellphones to mobilize protests as well as social media to raise global attention, the Egyptians were successful in unseating their dictator.
The idea of affective discourse in progressing social change connects to Nat Kendall-Taylor’s Ted Talk, who argues about the importance of properly framing stories and understanding culture in achieving societal change without neglecting proper presentation of information.
In Pedwell’s piece, I learned how empathy can backfire into amplifying inequalities. “Privileged (middle class, white, and/or Western) people cultivate their affective capacities and skills, but the less privileged (poor, non-white and/or non-Western) ‘other’ remains simply the object of empathy.” Although the problematic awareness of hierarchies in Western society is important, characterizing less-privileged groups in need of empathy can be harmful to closing gaps. The author suggests adopting an “upside-down” hierarchy perspective to develop genuine connections with other cultures in an unequal world. Empathy is becoming problematic in targeting consumers as well, where advertisers aim to make them feel dissatisfied until they buy their products.
The underestimation of data collection in the digital era
The “nothing-to-hide” argument was interesting to explore, particularly learning about how privacy actually involves many things, from peeping Toms to unconsented uses of data. Information processing has become the more pervasive form of privacy breaching that goes beyond surveillance to exclusion. Despite the prevailing privacy invasiveness, people still offer their information to use corporatized sites such as Facebook and other social media networks, known as the privacy paradox.
“Affective Publics” connects to my final project case study. It furthered my understanding of the capabilities of digital media, because if utilized properly, media can initiate necessary change in society, demonstrated by empowering self-promoters like female athletes and recovered female bodybuilders from eating disorders. These types of influential women use their popularity to promote female empowerment against gender standards. Padwell’s piece also relates to my case study because too much empathy can backfire, making certain groups feel weak and targeted, such as girls recovering from eating disorders. Instagram is an ideal platform to build a supportive community where girls do not feel stigmatized or pressured.
