Politicians, celebrities and social media: a case of informalisation?
Date
2017
Authors
Manning, N.
Penfold-Mounce, R.
Loader, B.
Vromen, A.
Xenos, M.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Journal of Youth Studies, 2017; 20(2):127-144
Statement of Responsibility
Nathan Manning, Ruth Penfold-Mounce, Brian D. Loader, Ariadne Vromen and Michael Xenos
Conference Name
Abstract
With electoral politics no longer organised by social class, politicians increasingly seek to relate to a broad spectrum of citizens and part of their relatability is conjured through more casual, informal performances aimed at cultivating authenticity. The various platforms of social media promote forms of authentic communication by blurring the public/private divide, creating ‘spontaneous’ and instant access to ‘real life’. This article seeks to investigate the informalisation thesis by applying it to data from young people aged 16–21 years in Australia, the UK and the USA, asked about the way politicians and celebrities use social media. Findings reveal respondents’ desire for more authentic and accessible politicians, but this was in direct tension with traditional views and expectations of politicians needing to be professional, informed and worthy of respect. Informalisation amongst politicians is evident and welcomed by young citizens but persistent traditional views means it also threatens their credibility.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Access Status
Rights
© 2016 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group