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Abstract

This dissertation offers an exploration into the impact of digital activism on fourth wave feminism, weighing up the beneficial factors that enable the projection of fourth wave feminist narratives, as well as the implications that may hinder potential progress regarding fourth wave feminist causes. A combination of theoretical and semiotic analysis will be used to identify these factors, such as the use of Twitter as the proposed main source of digital activism. It is argued that social movements have been able to develop and reach wider audiences due to the utilisation of social media platforms, especially due to comment sections, use of hashtags, and ability to connect with other like minded individuals. These ideas will be supported using the example of the #MeToo movement, which dominated the media during its development in 2017. This will enable the exploration into how, by using social media, network feminists are subsequently able to control feminist narratives and reject patriarchal and misogynistic content online. I will also be implementing the work of major critics such as Mary Joyce, Henry Jenkins and Aristea Fotopoulou to support the ideas in my dissertation, particularly Fotopoulou’s research into digital feminism and activist organisations which will be discussed during the second chapter of my dissertation.

Course: Media Studies - BA (Hons) - C1346

Date Deposited: 2022-08-10

URI/permalink: https://www.library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis13989.html