NEW MEDIA USE AND POLITICAL PARTICIPATION: THE CASE OF ISTANBUL

Authors : Oğuz Han Öztay, Hasan Yurdakul

Pages : 920-938

Doi:10.54688/ayd.1751597

View : 66 | Download : 85

Publication Date : 2025-12-29

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study focuses on the role of new media platforms in political participation and democratization. The research was conducted among individuals over 18 living in Istanbul, and the sample was determined using a stratified sampling method. The study adopted the quantitative method, and data were obtained using the survey data collection technique with the participation of 429 people. These data were subjected to thematic and descriptive analysis, and the relationship between the participants\\\' media use practices and their participation in political processes was analyzed in the context of demographic data. According to the findings obtained in this study, the platforms, usage practices, and content preferred by the participants are especially effective in the political participation process. One of the most important findings is that new media platforms increase access to political information but are limited in encouraging active political participation. On the other hand, while individuals with a high level of political interest are seen to use new media platforms more consciously in terms of political participation, the fact that the general audience tends to be more passive viewers is another important finding. Thus, whether new media platforms are only an information tool or an active participation platform for individuals comes to the fore.
Keywords : Siyasal İletişim, Yeni Medya Platformları, Siyasal Katılım, Medya Tüketimi, Gündem, Demokrasi

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