Social media has transformed the way politics works. But what are the real effects of these technologies on democracy? Do they increase political participation or fuel polarization? Do they spread misinformation or facilitate information sharing? This course examines the relationship between digital media and politics. We analyze how platforms affect political behavior, public opinion, and democratic processes. Students will explore important contemporary issues, including digital activism and social movements, political polarization, misinformation, surveillance, and digital populism. Through cross- country comparisons, this course will provide tools for understanding the opportunities and challenges that digital technologies pose for democracy. Students will apply course concepts through practical analysis of recent digital activism campaigns, exploring how movements strategically use different platforms and when online activism translates into offline political change.

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to critically evaluate the political effects of social media and understand the affordances offered by different platforms and how they matter for political behavior. Students will also reflect on the future of democracy in the age of algorithmic media.