Digital platforms and democratic publics: How social media platforms selectively appropriate and strategically subvert institutional logics

Using Digital Media to Promote Kidney Disease Education

Techno-optimistic framings of the digital food economy purport that digital platforms can contribute to individuals’ dietary behavior change. Against this background, we investigate how people’s understandings of ‘eating well’ and their engagements with digital platforms are entangled. To do so, we conducted the first large-scale explorative survey among adults living in Switzerland on digital eating practices to date (n = 449). The survey examines participants’ understanding of ‘eating well’ and their uptake and use of digital food platforms. Our survey analysis revealed six distinct clusters of how participants conceptualize ‘eating well’. We found that participants in each cluster engage with a different set of apps, blogs and social media platforms with limited overlap between the clusters. Moreover, each cluster's engagement with selected digital food platforms responds to and supports their prevailing eating practices and goals. The 21 follow-up interviews supported the finding of the survey analysis that eaters (per cluster) seek out digital food platforms to have ‘more of the same’. In other words, participants’ use of digital platforms reinforces their existing eating interests and practices, nonetheless, these practices are increasingly digitally mediated. Ultimately, our results lead us to problematize techno-optimistic visions that digital platforms can unilaterally alter eaters’ established diet.

This chapter analyzes what happens to media use when everyday life is suddenly disrupted, focusing on how the COVID-19 pandemic transformed work, socializing, communication and everyday living. The empirical case is changing media use in Norway during the pandemic, building on a qualitative questionnaire survey conducted in early lockdown, and follow-up interviews eight months later. Expanding on the ideas of destabilization of media repertoires developed in the former chapter, this analysis discusses transforming media repertoires as more digital, as less mobile (but still smartphone-centric) and as essentially social. The chapter further explains new concepts for pandemic media use practices, such as doomscrolling and Zoom fatigue. Can you remember when you first heard of COVID-19, and did you think it would change your life? 'They started talking about it on the news', said Inger, a Norwegian woman nearing 70, whom we interviewed in late 2020. She continued: 'I still found people were quite relaxed. Who would have thought such a thing could happen to the whole world? It is like science fiction'. 'We talked about it when they speed-built that hospital in China', said Einar, a man in his 40s working in the cultural sector, 'but no one thought it would come here. Former epidemics happened elsewhere'. He added: 'It is like that with a lot of things'. School employee Karla remembered a conversation at work about the need for kids to stay home at the smallest sign of cold symptoms: 'Parents would never get to work! We laughed about it, thinking it was impossible. And then it took three weeks, and the country shut down'.

The value of digital platforms cannot be ignored. With their integrated nature, digital platforms remove boundaries in the digital economy and have become the operating system of our lives (Vaidhyanathan, 2018, p. 99). Digital platforms are not an option anymore but rather an essential tool and the core of the digital ecosystem (Ha et al., 2023). In the meantime, the capability to utilize digital platforms determines not only opportunities but also threats, and accordingly the use of digital platforms has positive and negative consequences. For example, people can take part in open discussions with others on digital news platforms. However, the anonymity and remoteness of digital platforms may allow antisocial behaviors such as the mass production of rumors and public opinion manipulation.Though the use of digital platforms has both sides of the coin, research on psychological understanding of malicious behaviors on digital platforms is still limited. Previous studies appear to focus mainly on the positive side of the coin. Therefore, this Research Topic solicited empirical articles examining the antecedents, processes, and effects of malicious behaviors on digital platforms. This editorial piece aims to provide a quick review of the four articles published under this Research Topic, followed by concluding remarks.The four articles take a deep dive into three prevalent forms of malicious behaviors on digital platforms: malicious comments, hate speech, and cyberbullying. First, focusing on malicious news comments, Lee, Baek, and Kim investigate individual factors, including demographic characteristics, personality traits, and reading-related factors, as well as contextual factors such as issue involvement, perceived peer behavior, and the presence of malicious comments in news articles. An analysis of online survey data of 1,000 Koreans demonstrates that most of the proposed variables have a significant impact on the perceived maliciousness of online news comments, except for morality and issue involvement. The results shed light on the mechanisms behind individuals' perception of the maliciousness of online news comments and offer valuable insights into the ways to reduce malicious comments.Second, two studies tackle hate speech, both its expression patterns in the context of gerontophobia and the public's attitudes toward its regulation. Kim and Ryu have analyzed 133,218 news articles about the elderly and 1,238,935 comments on Naver, Korea's leading portal site, posted between May 2017 and June 2021. Kim and Ryu have used a deep learning model, kcBert, for labeling and classification of gerontophobic comments, and LDA (Latent Dirichlet Allocation) Topic Modeling for identification of news topics. Over the observed six years, the proportion of gerontophobic comments, particularly those showing the "fear of aging," has gradually decreased. Gerontophobic comments tend to emerge under news articles related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the issues related to the elderly (e.g., their digital and financial exclusion, their economic and social welfare), and other historical issues (e.g., comfort women).Park, Kim, and Kim unpack factors that predict the public's support for regulation on online hate speech. Through an analysis of online survey data of 1,000 Koreans, Park et al. document two direct pathways to support for regulation from victimization experiences by hate speech and effectiveness of regulatory measures respectively. Their results also identify an indirect pathway linking (i) content uploading behavior, (ii) victimization experiences by hate speech, (iii) social harm caused by hate speech, and finally, (iv) support for regulation. Park et al. highlight the important roles of perceived harm by hate speech and effectiveness of regulatory measures in determining support for regulation of online hate speech.Lastly, Al-Turif and Al-Sanad investigate digital bullying, specifically its prevalent forms, causes, and repercussions. Through a descriptive analysis of survey data of 640 students from five universities randomly selected to represent five regions of Saudi Arabia, Al-Turif and Al-Sanad show that digital bullying is widespread in diverse forms on social media (e.g., hostile messages that hurt the feelings of the recipient). For perceived causes of digital bullying, respondents have selected psychological reasons, followed by social, technological development-related, and economic reasons. The results also demonstrate that digital bullying has serious repercussions for social media users, families of victims, and society.In summary, the articles provide timely findings and point to the importance of understanding psychological characteristics of malicious behaviors on digital platforms. They advance our understanding of malicious behaviors on digital platforms by showcasing their patterns, causes and effects and delving into mechanisms behind individuals' perceptions of maliciousness as well as support for regulation. Insights gained from this Research Topic could help us better understand the related studies conducted in Asian and Middle Eastern contexts. We hope that this Research Topic will inspire further in-depth research on how to mitigate the serious problems of malicious comments, hate speech and digital bullying on digital platforms.

The number of internet users on various digital platforms in Indonesia is continu ing increase . This is supported by the presence of smartphones and an eas y to getting internet access . This condition also encourages the presence of various digital platforms in the form of applications . And without a registration fee increasing the users of the platform . But without realizing it, actually the users of various digital platforms become unpaid laborers . They also provide capital injections for the media kapitalism in the form of valuable data stores . The review in this paper uses a political economy perspective , aims to give some understand ing the main issues related to new media audiences through describing a holistic picture about the dynamics of capitalism exploitation in social media platforms . The data needed in the analysis of this research was obtained through documentation studies . F urthermore, the analysis was carried out within a descriptive analysis framework , so the qualitative approach becomes the choice of method in this study . From the results of the study, it can be concluded that media capitalism has transformed . They are accommodating the users of various new digital media platforms , such as social media, online news sites, etc by stimulating them to always actively use it . The capitalists with their various transformations also take public data to be exchanged into profitable commodities .

BackgroundChildren and adolescents are exposed to a high volume of unhealthy food marketing across digital media. No previous Canadian data has estimated child exposure to food marketing across digital media platforms. This study aimed to compare the frequency, healthfulness and power of food marketing viewed by children and adolescents across all digital platforms in Canada.MethodsFor this cross-sectional study, a quota sample of 100 youth aged 6–17 years old (50 children, 50 adolescents distributed equally by sex) were recruited online and in-person in Canada in 2022. Each participant completed the WHO screen capture protocol where they were recorded using their smartphone or tablet for 30-min in an online Zoom session. Research assistants identified all instances of food marketing in the captured video footage. A content analysis of each marketing instance was then completed to examine the use of marketing techniques. Nutritional data were collected on each product viewed and healthfulness was determined using Health Canada’s 2018 Nutrient Profile Model. Estimated daily and yearly exposure to food marketing was calculated using self-reported device usage data.Results51% of youth were exposed to food marketing. On average, we estimated that children are exposed to 1.96 marketing instances/child/30-min (4067 marketing instances/child/year) and adolescents are exposed to 2.56 marketing instances/adolescent/30-min (8301 marketing instances/adolescent/year). Both children and adolescents were most exposed on social media platforms (83%), followed by mobile games (13%). Both age groups were most exposed to fast food (22% of marketing instances) compared to other food categories. Nearly 90% of all marketing instances were considered less healthy according to Health Canada’s proposed 2018 Nutrient Profile Model, and youth-appealing marketing techniques such as graphic effects and music were used frequently.ConclusionsUsing the WHO screen capture protocol, we were able to determine that child and adolescent exposure to the marketing of unhealthy foods across digital media platforms is likely high. Government regulation to protect these vulnerable populations from the negative effects of this marketing is warranted.

Technology plays an important role in development. Digital technology in communication and universal access of mobile connectivity have created a significant opportunity for women to think about update their life style within a flexible space and time. Towards the end of 20th century, the information and communication sectors have been booming with some digital media platforms and accordingly the market have been loaded with Smartphone which is an important tool for communication, business, entertainment and education. Easy access of mobile data for connectivity along with digital media platforms gives opportunities to women to use their skill and resource for economic independence. The case study explores the role of social media as a catalyst for women’s economic independence in Assam, India. In recent times, it has been noticed that women in Assam have increasingly engaged with social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, X, Instagram and WhatsApp to generate income, access markets and build entrepreneurial venture. To do the entire study the researcher adopt mixed methods approaches which combines in-depth interview with 10 women across rural and urban Assam, survey of 50 participants and analysis of social media usage data. The study examines how digital platforms help women to overcome geographical barriers, traditional gender roles and limited access to employment. Finding reveal that social media contributes to economic independence providing platforms where women can sell their resources and skills. Expanding market through online network can enter global market through E-commerce and facilitating skill development.

Artificial intelligence analytics in digital finance platforms is important in the modern digital world. AI can conduct analytics quickly and provide the outcomes for the system users to make informed, data-driven conclusions. AI can scan through large datasets and provide meaningful information on social media platforms, historical quantitative transactions, and finances to give critical findings, unlike traditional systems. This review article assessed previous research articles on financial risk evaluation using AI analytics in the finance industry and digital finance platforms. The outcomes outlined the capabilities of financial risks evaluated with the help of AI in digital finance platforms. The key identified risks were credit risks, market risks, operational risks, fraud risks, and compliance risks. The study outlined the key capabilities of AI in shielding firms against such risks through predictive analytics, anomaly detection, sentiment analysis, and credit scoring. The AI systems should be hosted on the cloud to have access to large datasets to give accurate, data-driven conclusions. The identified challenges are algorithm bias, data privacy, regulatory compliance (especially across platforms and countries), and skill gaps in the market. In conclusion, using AI in digital finance platforms has increased the efficiency in making informed decisions for sustainability and strategic growth.

Media platforms, technological systems, and search engines act as conduits and gatekeepers for all kinds of information. They often influence, reflect, and reinforce gender stereotypes, including those that represent occupations. This study examines the prevalence of gender stereotypes on digital media platforms and considers how human efforts to create and curate messages directly may impact these stereotypes. While gender stereotyping in social media and algorithms has received some examination in the recent literature, its prevalence in different types of platforms (for example, wiki vs. news vs. social network) and under differing conditions (for example, degrees of human‐ and machine‐led content creation and curation) has yet to be studied. This research explores the extent to which stereotypes of certain strongly gendered professions (librarian, nurse, computer programmer, civil engineer) persist and may vary across digital platforms (Twitter, the New York Times online, Wikipedia, and Shutterstock). The results suggest that gender stereotypes are most likely to be challenged when human beings act directly to create and curate content in digital platforms, and that highly algorithmic approaches for curation showed little inclination towards breaking stereotypes. Implications for the more inclusive design and use of digital media platforms, particularly with regard to mediated occupational messaging, are discussed.

The implementation of the asnaf entrepreneurial transformation model through the Human Development Program is a proactive initiative of the State Islamic Religious Council (MAIN) aimed at increasing the asnaf group's potential in the entrepreneurial field. This initiative is in line with the goal of MAIN to increase the effectiveness of zakat distribution through a two-pronged strategy to ensure that every asnaf can live a prosperous life while expanding their potential to break free from the shackles of poverty. The Industrial Revolution 4.0 has contributed to the rapid development of information and communication technology. The development of various online applications and social media platforms has had a positive impact on people's lives. Therefore, enterprises and entrepreneurial activities, especially the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) sector, need to enhance their respective competitiveness by participating in digital entrepreneurship platforms. Therefore, this study aims to determine the potential of digital platforms to increase the competitiveness of asnaf zakat entrepreneurs. The study was conducted qualitatively using a descriptive approach through a systematic analysis of highlights. The main sources for this study were obtained from online databases, namely Scopus and Web of Science. The data were then analyzed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA). The results of the study suggest that digital platforms have the potential to increase the competitiveness of asnaf zakat entrepreneurs through six approaches, namely resources, personality, opportunities, networking, environment, and knowledge. Therefore, the study can serve as a guide for the State Islamic Religious Council to develop appropriate programs and approaches to improve literacy and participation of asnaf zakat entrepreneurs in the digital platform.

This study explores university students’ usage of different digital media platforms, their fact-checking behavior, ability to identify online misinformation, and how academic libraries can help them in combating online misinformation. Using a mixed-method approach, the study collected quantitative data from students and qualitative data from library professionals of a public university in Bangladesh. Students’ data were gathered through an online survey questionnaire from different social media platforms using a convenience sampling technique and analyzed using SPSS software and Microsoft Excel. Qualitative data were collected from library professionals using an interview method and analyzed based on the thematic analysis technique. A total of 408 students and 6 library professionals participated in the study. The majority of the students used Facebook, YouTube and Messenger for information consumption and were skilled in navigating and using various digital media platforms effectively and could distinguish between credible and unreliable sources of information on digital platforms. Students’ fact-checking behavior differed based on several demographic variables. On the other hand, interviews with library professionals revealed that while no formal initiatives exist, they perceive a vital role for academic libraries in promoting information literacy, ethical use, and access to reliable resources to combat misinformation.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of social and digital media platforms in improving teaching and learning practices in Indian schools. With the rapid growth of technology and the increasing distribution of internet access across the country, social and digital media platforms have emerged as powerful instruments with the potential to transform the educational environment. The benefits, constraints, and potential solutions for effectively leveraging these platforms to improve teaching and learning outcomes in Indian schools are examined in this study. The incorporation of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram allow teachers to develop virtual communities, facilitate communication, and engage students in dynamic discussions outside of the traditional classroom. These platforms facilitate cooperation, peer-to-peer learning, and the exchange of educational information. Furthermore, they allow teachers to deliver personalized feedback, monitor student progress, and assess learning outcomes in real-time, creating a more student-centered and inclusive learning environment. Digital media platforms, such as online learning management systems, educational apps, and interactive multimedia content, are critical for increasing access to quality education in remote locations and closing the digital divide. These platforms offer a plethora of instructional resources, ranging from e-books and videos to simulations and virtual reality experiences, all of which can help students better learn and retain complicated concepts. Furthermore, adaptive learning capabilities on digital media platforms adjust instructional content to individual students' requirements and learning styles, enabling personalized and self-paced learning experiences. However, integrating social and digital media platforms in Indian schools presents several problems.

Abstract: Community welfare activities like helping NGOs, volunteering, providing emergency help, supporting healthcare, taking care of animals, and spreading social awareness are very important for building a better and more caring society. Today, many digital platforms and apps are being used to support these activities. These platforms help connect NGOs, volunteers, donors, and people who need help, making it easier for everyone to work together. However, even though such platforms are becoming popular, many of them focus on only one type of service, are not well connected, and face problems like unclear information, poor coordination, lack of transparency, and low user involvement. This survey paper studies different digital platforms used for community welfare and NGO support. It mainly looks at how aware users are of these platforms, how much they actually use them, and what problems they face while using them. By combining information from earlier research and responses from a user survey, the study finds common issues that stop people from actively participating and using these platforms for a long time. The results show that while many people genuinely want to help social causes and believe technology can make a positive difference, existing platforms often fail to turn this willingness into real action. The paper highlights the need for simple, well-connected, and user-friendly digital platforms that can solve the problems found in current systems. By considering both research studies and real user experiences, this work helps in better understanding the challenges faced by digital community welfare platforms and provides a basic idea for developing complete solutions like CommunityConnect. It also points out possible areas where future research and improvements can be made. Keywords: Community Welfare, Digital Platforms, NGO Support, User Engagement, Volunteering and Social Initiatives, Technology for Social Good, User Perception, Platform Integration, Trust and Transparency, Sustainable Community Development.

Because of advancements in information technology and the emergence of various digital platforms, there have been significant changes in the way people consume music over the years. Gramophones, audio cassette players, CD and DVD players, and other analog devices that were popular in the past, have become nearly obsolete. The internet and, later, smartphones were the primary drivers of change in the late 1990s. Since the mid-2000s, social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube, as well as online audio stores and streaming platforms like Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, Pandora, and SoundCloud, have become the most popular ways for people to listen to music on their smartphones. The internet has a much larger selection of music than traditional sources such as vinyl records, audio cassettes, CD-DVDs, or iPods, which have limited song storage capacities. This study focuses on the growing popularity of online music consumption among Bangladeshi university students. Apart from that, the study sought to explore how university students enjoy music on digital platforms, the platforms they use, whether they use these platforms to consume, or share pirated music, and the devices they use to do so. The researcher interviewed students from various departments at Rajshahi University using a social survey method. According to the study, Rajshahi University students have given up traditional music consumption methods in favour of various digital platforms. In this university, Facebook, YouTube, and Spotify are the most popular platforms for both male and female young students to enjoy music. Music consumption via digital platforms has become an integral part of their daily lives. Students also use social media to share their favorite songs from digital platforms with their family and friends. According to the study, the majority of the students does not listen to music from pirated sources and prefer free sources over digital platforms.

Human-nature interactions are ubiquitous and are commonly represented in the digital realm. Here, we aim to harness the rapidly accumulating wealth of new digital data sources and demonstrate that using multiple digital sources can help better understand societal aspects of biodiversity conservation. We explored different digital data platforms, including social media platforms, search engines, online encyclopedias, popular media articles, large online scientific databases, and citizen science platforms. These sources can represent different types of engagement people have with nature by different sectors of society. We assessed and compared the salience of 53 wildflower species in Israel across these digital sources as a test case. We found that different digital platforms highlight different species. Importantly, different platforms focused differently on a) narrow versus wide-ranging species, b) species found in locations that are closer or further away from roads, c) different plant growth forms, d) protected versus non-protected species, and e) endangered versus non-endangered species. These results suggest people have different engagements with nature, in different locations, across different digital data sources. We further show different relationships between salience across the different platforms. For example, the social media platform Flickr highlights unique species not represented in any other platform. Overall, our exploration of digital salience towards wildflowers in Israel demonstrates the importance of analysing multiple digital sources to allow for a more inclusive representation of the public and to better reflect species’ cultural importance online.