THE EVOLVING ONLINE PUBLIC SPHERE: REIMAGINING POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE DIGITAL AGE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14456/apsr.2025.14Keywords:
Political Participation, Digital Engagement, Online Public Sphere, Digital Activism, Conceptual FrameworkAbstract
This study examines the profound transformation of citizen political participation in the digital era, focusing on the emergent "online public sphere" and its implications for democratic governance. It analyzes how traditional engagement is complemented and challenged by digital activism, social media, and online discourse. Synthesizing scholarly literature (2005-2024), this review examines evolving dynamics of online participation, identifying critical shifts and novel forms of citizen action. It investigates how socio-demographic factors (age, gender, education, socioeconomic status) influence access, engagement, and impact in this digital realm. A novel conceptual framework is introduced—encompassing accessibility, inclusivity, interaction, impact, and feedback—advocating multifaceted approaches to evaluating democratic processes. Recommendations are provided for policymakers, activists, and scholars to promote inclusive participation strategies in a digitized landscape. Ultimately, this research redefines political participation, emphasizing the online public sphere's significance for 21st-century deliberation and civic engagement, and adapting models to digital citizenship.
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