Social Media and the Public Sphere

Jurgen Habermas developed the idea of the ‘public sphere’ providing a platform for individuals to discuss affair. It allows many to form public opinion about various matters in the hope that it transpires political change.

The internet and emergence of social media has been seen as being a positive influence on the Public Sphere in the way that it has promoted civic participation. Social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter are used by many and with information constantly shared and at such a quick pace, the role of ‘citizen journalist’ has allowed many people of whom own camera phones to upload videos and photographs as and when they are happening in 'real time'.

The role of citizen journalism has fast become a strong and popular platform for many to report their goings on and upload straight to YouTube for millions to see. In turn this allows a fairer and democratized society for the public sphere in the sharing of information from members of the public, instead of receiving news from only official news broadcasters who, in higher positions are subject to political bias and the censoring of news.

As our notions of democracy are tied closely to the public discourse and opinions of others, social media has allowed us to be producers of our own content rather than just consumers from a mass audience. Although there may be more ways of producing opinions and generating social commentary, Turner’s research suggest that the hierarchy of the web allows many voices to go unheard due to search engines showing at the top of its lists the most searched sites. Much of the public’s written opinion on blogs and various sites are rarely heard due to the popularity of other sites published by a minority of 'white, highly educated, male, professionals who are vastly overrepresented in online opinion.’ (Turner, 2010) 

The internet has greatly allowed for public opinions to be voiced and furthered the development of the Public Sphere. Important topics that have trended on Twitter, such as recently the Leveson Inquiry has allowed many to voice their thoughts and opinions online using hashtags which has brought more people and not just followers to see the content you've published alongside it, increasing the spread of information and opinions. 

Overall I feel that the internet and the rise of social media have contributed to the Public Sphere in a positive way, allowing a place for individuals to voice their own opinions on important matters. The impact of social media has given more attention to the views of others and enabled the widespread of information to different audiences through social networking at a easier and quicker pace.