ABSTRACT
This chapter explores more broadly the evolution of social media and social networking sites and their place in social movements. The process of civic identity formation lies at the center of newer culturally oriented models of Internet influence on civic engagement and social movements. Social networking, a term that can be traced back to 1998, is defined by Merriam-Webster as "the creation and maintenance of personal and business relationships especially online". Malcolm Gladwell suggests that the "weak ties" between individuals on social media simply do not translate into the "high-risk activism" needed to fuel actual political and social change. Facebook remains the most popular social media platform, with its users visiting the site more regularly than users of other social media sites. From the early days of chat rooms, news groups, and affinity portals, sexual minorities have connected with like-minded individuals online and used social media platforms to develop communities and participate in civic engagement activities.
