The use of social media and perceptions of corruption within the Jordanian political elite

Abstract

This paper examines the use of social media by Jordanian political elites impacting on issues relating to political decision-making and corruption. Motives of political participation are studied, scrutinizing the relationship between social media and activity, and political awareness and communication within a selected sample. Adopting Jürgen Habermas’ public sphere theory, the study addresses social communication as a core area of non-institutional interaction which is more prevalent than institutional political activities. An intentional sampling of 206 Jordanian elite, are surveyed to determine the role that social media played in providing information relating to corruption in Jordan. A comprehensive inventory method was used, and a questionnaire was analysed using SPSS, revealing a social media platform for exchange of opinions from Jordanian political hierarchy and public. Therein an illusory gap is bridged between elite and commoner highlighting issues including corruption, proving an essential tool in the fight against corruptive intentions.