The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Opinions

Abstract

Social media has fundamentally transformed political discourse, serving as both a platform for public engagement and a tool for political persuasion. This article examines the role of social media in shaping political opinions, exploring its mechanisms for influence, the impact on public opinion formation, and the potential consequences for democratic engagement. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this study investigates how algorithms, echo chambers, and user-generated content contribute to opinion polarization, the spread of misinformation, and political mobilization. Data from surveys, content analyses, and social network metrics provide insights into how social media has changed the landscape of political influence, with implications for policymaking and media literacy. The study emphasizes the need for regulatory oversight and digital literacy education to address the challenges posed by social media's role in political opinion formation.