Digital Media Practices and Social Movements. A Theoretical Framework from Latin America

Abstract

Starting with the alternative digital media experiences that have taken place in the last two decades in Latin America, this chapter proposes a theoretical and methodological framework inspired by the critical tradition of participatory communication for social change as it developed in Latin America. The chapter is structured as follows. Firstly, we underline the latest framework of collective action that has characterized the new cycle of struggles in Latin America. Secondly, we delineate our proposal, which will consider three pivotal aspects of the process of appropriating and using digital media. Afterwards, we explore how the bonds that are formed between the media and the protagonists reflect a “new” community of reference distinguished by horizontal processes. Finally, we analyse how the net activism practice leads the participating people to experience a process of empowerment.