Kasturi Sinha on Politics and Activism in the Digital Age

Politics is the process by which societies make collective decisions. It encompasses the activities, actions, and policies that individuals and groups use to gain and hold power, as well as to influence government and its policies. At its core, politics involves the distribution of resources, the resolution of conflicts, and the establishment of rules and regulations that shape the functioning of a community. One key aspect of politics is governance, where individuals or institutions are entrusted with authority to make decisions on behalf of the community. This can take various forms, from democratic systems where citizens have a direct or representative role in decision-making, to autocratic regimes where power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small group. Political ideologies play a significant role in shaping political systems and structures.

These ideologies, such as liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and others, provide frameworks for understanding the role of government, individual rights, and economic organization within a society. They often serve as guiding principles for political parties and movements, influencing policy debates and electoral campaigns. Politics is not limited to the formal institutions of government; it also encompasses a wide range of activities within civil society, including advocacy, activism, and participation in community affairs. Social movements and interest groups play crucial roles in shaping political agendas, advocating for specific policies, and challenging established norms and practices. Conflict is inherent in politics, as different individuals and groups may have competing interests and priorities. Political processes are mechanisms for managing and resolving these conflicts, whether through negotiation, compromise, or the exercise of power. The rule of law, an essential component of political systems, provides a framework for resolving disputes and ensuring that decisions are made within established legal norms.

In the ever-evolving universe of politics, today’s generation plays a pivotal role in shaping the socio-political landscape. With a digital era providing unprecedented connectivity, young individuals are engaging with political issues in unique ways. Social media platforms serve as catalysts for political discourse, offering a space for diverse voices to be heard. The younger generation leverages these platforms to express opinions, mobilize movements, and hold leaders accountable. However, this digital age also brings challenges, such as the spread of misinformation and the echo chamber effect. Moreover, the values and priorities of today’s youth often differ from previous generations. Issues like climate change, social justice, and inclusivity take centre stage, influencing political agendas. This shift prompts a re-evaluation of traditional political structures and calls for greater representation of diverse perspectives.

Despite these, there’s an ongoing debate about the level of political efficacy among young people. Some argue that the digital age has empowered them to be more politically active, while sceptics question the depth of their engagement beyond online activism. Education also plays a crucial role in shaping political perspectives. Schools and universities are becoming spaces for critical discussions on civic responsibility, ethics, and global issues. Empowering the younger generation with a solid understanding of political processes is essential for fostering informed and active citizens. Henceforth, the dynamics between politics and today’s generation are multifarious. As the digital age continues to unfold, the impact of the younger demographic on political landscapes will undoubtedly evolve, shaping the future trajectory of societal governance.

Today’s youth exhibits a concerning trend of reduced participation in politics. Various factors contribute to this phenomenon, such as disillusionment with political systems, a perception of inefficacy, and a preference for alternative avenues of civic engagement. One significant reason for the diminished political involvement among the youth is a pervasive sense of disillusionment with the existing political structures. Many perceive politicians as disconnected from their concerns, leading to a lack of trust in the efficacy of political processes. This disillusionment often results in apathy or a sense that participation won’t bring about meaningful change. Furthermore, the youth may feel that their individual contributions in politics are insignificant, given the magnitude of global challenges. This perception of inefficacy can deter them from actively engaging in political activities, as they may believe their voices won’t make a difference amidst complex societal issues.

Additionally, the rise of alternative forms of civic engagement, such as social media activism and grassroots movements, has diverted the attention of the youth away from traditional political channels. The immediacy and impact of these alternative methods appeal to the younger generation, leading them to explore avenues outside conventional political frameworks. Educational gaps and insufficient emphasis on civic education also play a role. Inadequate understanding of political processes and the importance of participation can contribute to a lack of interest amongst the youth. Strengthening civic education in schools can help equip young individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to actively engage in political discourse. To reverse this trend, there is a need for targeted efforts to rekindle the youth’s interest in politics. Encouraging open dialogue, creating platforms for youth representation, and emphasizing the tangible impact of their involvement can help rebuild trust and inspire a new generation of politically active individuals. The decline in youth participation in politics stems from a combination of disillusionment, perceived inefficacy, alternative avenues of engagement, and educational gaps.

In recent years, there has been a growing sentiment that social activism is losing its vigor, leading some to declare it “dead.” This assertion, however, warrants a closer inspection of the current landscape of social movements and the factors contributing to this perception. One key argument revolves around the digital age, asserting that the ease of online expression has replaced on-the-ground activism. While social media platforms provide a powerful tool for awareness and mobilization, critics argue that they often foster “clicktivism” – a form of activism centred around liking, sharing, and commenting rather than tangible, real-world actions. Another contributing factor is the polarization of society. Many argue that the increasing divisiveness in political and social discourse has hindered the effectiveness of social activism. Activists face a more challenging task in bridging gaps and fostering understanding when faced with deeply entrenched ideological divides. Furthermore, some critics point to the co-opting of social justice movements by corporate interests. The commercialization of activism, often referred to as “woke capitalism,” has led to skepticism about the sincerity of corporations aligning themselves with social causes. This has sparked a debate over whether true systemic change can be achieved when social issues are commoditised for profit. Moreover, the erosion of trust in institutions has dampened the impact of traditional forms of activism. Skepticism towards governments, NGOs, and even established activist organizations has led to a decrease in collective action.

Many individuals feel disillusioned with the ability of these entities to effect meaningful change. However, it is crucial to note that declaring social activism “dead” oversimplifies a complex and dynamic landscape. Despite the challenges, there are instances where grassroots movements have achieved significant victories. Movements like Black Lives Matter and climate activism have garnered global attention and inspired tangible policy changes. In conclusion, while there are valid concerns about the state of social activism, it is premature to declare it dead. The landscape is evolving, with new challenges and opportunities emerging in the digital age. Rather than succumbing to pessimism, a more nuanced examination of the factors influencing activism today is necessary to understand and address the changing dynamics of social movements.