Why Social Media Has Potential to Change

Angelos Chryssogelos outlines why social media platforms have the potential to change in bringing together users from different backgrounds and with different beliefs.

Explainer Video Updated 4 October 2020 2 minute watch

Why Social Media Has Potential to Change

Dr Angelos Chryssogelos

Former Associate Fellow, Europe Programme

Angelos, an associate fellow with the Europe Programme at Chatham House, is an expert in European politics, populism, and the rise of the far right.

He explains that the opportunities for political parties to use technology are huge in terms of engaging with voters and understanding their concerns, as well as for voters having more direct engagement with decision-making.

However he says the dangers are very present with big social media platforms in reinforcing people’s own beliefs and offering debate only with those of the same opinion or those they trust. Changing this could be a huge enhancement for democracy’s future.

Read more about Chatham House’s Commission on Democracy and Technology site.