Politicians aren’t using social media as we might expect, but digital technologies are helping them draw closer to constituents. In her book Selfie Democracy, media theorist Elizabeth Losh explains the role of digital media in political engagement and voting decisions. Instead of maximising social media to reach constituents, it seems that politicians use it to exploit the social connections of the public. Elected representatives capitalise on digital media as a political arsenal not only to promote themselves but also to attack opponents through the deployment of trolls. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
