Title: Social media use in politics - Wikipedia
Headings: Social media use in politics
Social media use in politics
Contents
Background
Participatory role
As a news source
Attention economy
As a public utility
Government regulation
Effect on democracy
Democratization
The Arab Spring
Disinformation
Advertisement
Grassroots campaigns
Election interference
Election results
Impact on elections
Role in conflict
Non-state actors and militant groups
Weaponization by state actors
See also
References

Content: Social media, or more specifically news media- plays an important role in democratic societies because they allow for participation among citizens. Therefore, when it comes to healthy democratic networks, it is crucial that that news remains true so it doesn't affect citizens’ levels of trust. A certain amount of trust is necessary for a healthy and well functioning democratic system. Younger generations are becoming more involved in politics due to the increase of political news posted on various types of social media. Due to the heavier use of social media among younger generations, they are exposed to politics more frequently, and in a way that is integrated into their online social lives. While informing younger generations of political news is important, there are many biases within the realms of social media. In May 2016, former Facebook Trending News curator Benjamin Fearnow revealed his job was to "massage the algorithm," but dismissed any "intentional, outright bias" by either human or automated efforts within the company. Fearnow was fired by Facebook after being caught leaking several internal company debates about Black Lives Matter and presidential candidate Donald Trump. As a public utility
See also: Social media as a public utility
A key debate centers on whether or not social media is a public good based on the premises of non-rival and non-excludable consumption.