Abstract
Through the analysis of influences from social networking sites surrounding the revolts of the Arab Spring, this paper seeks to evaluate about how the identity of Middle Eastern youth has been shaped by social media, and what future impact it could have on Middle Eastern social and political spheres. This paper relies on two key theories of the development of identity and self-perception - Social Cognitive Theory by Albert Bandura (1986) and Social Comparison theory by Festinger (1954). The paper shall try to make some unique contribution towards understanding the role that social media plays in transforming Arab youth identity, and its socio-political impact.
Highlights
Background and Objectives of StudyThe use of social media amongst the youth has become a global phenomenon
Through the analysis of influences from social networking sites surrounding the revolts of the Arab Spring, this paper seeks to evaluate about how the identity of Middle Eastern youth has been shaped by social media, and what future impact it could have on Middle Eastern social and political spheres
As Bradley noted, since there was no significant reaction from the Saudi Arabian people, it can only mean that the people either do not want political change or are afraid to stand up for it
Summary
The use of social media amongst the youth has become a global phenomenon. With the people of the Middle-east operating as one of the most rapid adopters of social media and social networking sites, the functions and subsequent analysis these sites play hold critical influence in both social developments and political revolutions. These insights do not reveal whether social media has influenced the individual desires amongst such populations to employ a democratic government Another notable impact that social media has had on the Middle-east aligns with the fact that it has resulted in a slight change in gender roles. Social media has enlightened Middle-eastern women to become agents of change in their communities This has resulted in provision of more leadership opportunities for women Overall social media has impacted the economy of Middle-eastern countries in that it has offered support for various businesses; increasing business profits, which end up supporting the economic growth of these countries This implies that a larger number of people are online as consumers. Its role in shaping the identity of the most dominant segment of Arab society, the youth, needs to be studied
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