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Social media in the 2011 Egyptian uprising
Robert Brym1, Melissa Godbout, Andreas Hoffbauer
1Department of Sociology, University of Toronto.
The British Journal of Sociology
|May 7, 2014
Summary
New electronic media played a role in the 2011 Egyptian uprising, but grievances and network connections were more critical factors than social media for distinguishing active protestors from onlookers.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Communication Studies
Background:
- The 2011 Egyptian uprising saw widespread protests.
- Two competing narratives emerged regarding the role of new electronic communications media in the protests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the validity of two narratives on the role of new electronic communications media in the 2011 Egyptian uprising.
- To determine the independent effects of electronic media versus other factors on protestor engagement.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Gallup poll data from Egypt.
- Statistical examination of factors distinguishing active demonstrators from sympathetic onlookers.
Main Results:
- Using new electronic communications media was associated with being a demonstrator.
- Grievances, structural availability, and network connections were more significant predictors of demonstrator status than media use.
- Both narratives regarding media's role have partial validity but require qualification.
Conclusions:
- New electronic communications media played a qualified role in the 2011 Egyptian uprising.
- Socio-political factors were more influential than media use in driving high-risk activism.
- A nuanced understanding is needed, acknowledging both media's contribution and its limitations.
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