Dennis discusses digital politics in the press
James Dennis, Senior Lecturer in Political Communication and Journalism, has provided commentary to several news organisations relating to digital politics, including BBC Radio Wiltshire, The Focus, and Newsweek. He also featured in a podcast series, Selfie Reflective, discussing his research on slacktivism. You can access James’ contributions below.
BBC Radio Wiltshire — 29/05/2020
Discussing how the Dominic Cummings scandal played out on social media.
Selfie Reflective Podcast: A Case for Slacktivism with James Dennis—15/06/2020
“In this episode, we’re speaking with James Dennis, Senior Lecturer in Political Communication and Journalism at the University of Portsmouth. James’s research focuses on digital politics and in particular, political engagement on social media. James has written a book called Beyond Slacktivism: Political Participation on Social Media. By reflecting on his research, James argues that the definition of slacktivism is too narrow and that the use of social media in regards to political issues can actually be more beneficial and progressive than we think.
We chat to James about his research, popular definitions of slacktivism and his reasons as to why should think more broadly about this idea as it exists on the spectrum of being aware, informed and active.”
NewsWeek: Trump Campaign, Under Siege From Activists, Is Losing the Social Media War
22/06/2020
https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-campaign-social-media-war-1512468
“Dr. James Dennis, author of Beyond Slacktivism: Political Participation on Social Media and a senior lecturer in political communication and journalism at the University of Portsmouth, said the actions showed how small acts online can mount up when people coordinate.
“This is an excellent example of how small acts of digital activism conducted at scale can be significant. It was easy to do, fun for those participating, and looks to have contributed to Trump’s campaign team exaggerating the potential crowd,” he told Newsweek.
Dennis said that the impact effectiveness must be looked at in a broader context, adding: “We will not understand the impact of social media on the election in these isolated moments, but in how parties and activists use these tools alongside other tactics between now and November.
“This example is noteworthy though for the young people participating. The experience can be empowering and can begin a process of further engagement.”
The Focus: Could TikTok teens actually make a difference in elections?
26/06/2020
https://www.thefocus.news/politics/could-tiktok-teens-actually-make-difference-elections/
NewsWeek: Trump’s Attack on TikTok May Motivate Young Activists Using it Against Him
14/07/2020
https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-tiktok-activists-1517681
Whatever their effectiveness, the president’s increasing hostility to the platform might exacerbate such acts against him, Dr. James Dennis, author of Beyond Slacktivism: Political Participation on Social Media, told Newsweek.
“Trump’s criticism of TikTok and threats to ban the app could strengthen the political community that is forming amongst young activists on the platform,” said Dennis, senior lecturer in political communication and journalism at the University of Portsmouth, U.K.
“I think it will add to the momentum of political organizing on the platform. This activism is based on the legacy of the Trump presidency, but specific criticism of the app and those that use it could mobilize a response.”
Dennis said Some of those on the platform may also view Trump’s TikTok comments as reactionary after what happened around the president’s Tulsa event.
“On TikTok, some are framing this as a response to the use of the app to amplify the expected attendance for the rally in Tulsa,” he said.
“Although this overlooks the political tension surrounding ByteDance, the Chinese tech company that owns TikTok, it is a significant narrative, especially for those who have relied on it as a source of connection and solidarity during the pandemic.” …
Despite this potential boost to TikTok, and those on it who are opposed to Trump, the political consequences are unclear.
“It’s incredibly hard to say if it could influence voting behavior though, given the amount of stimuli people are exposed to throughout the campaign that can shape that decision,” Dennis said.
