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Research project at the University of Glasgow on internet search trends in elections of established and challenged democracies. Analyzing search terms, Google Trends, and media influence on political agendas. Examining case studies from the UK, USA, Italy, and Egypt to understand the role of online activism, corruption, youth movements, and more in shaping election outcomes.
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Google: The Role of Internet Search in Elections in Established and Challenged Democracies Research project hosted by the University of Glasgow’s Adam Smith Research Foundation Funded by the ESRC www.voterecology.com
Citizen-centricapproach • Determiningcitizen agenda by identifyingunexpectedsearchterms(i.e. scandals/controversialpolicies/social media events)
From Established Democracies to transitional States: A Cross Country Case Study (UK 2010 / USA 2012 presidentialelections) • Search trends & candidates’ gaffes on sensitive issues (2013 Parliament Elections campaign) • Berlusconi & mass media • Search trends: scandal of Oscar Giannino (2011 revolution – 2013 coup d’état) • Activism, protests and search agenda ESTABLISHED DEMOCRACY USA/UK CHALLENGED DEMOCRACY ITALY TRANSITIONAL STATE EGYPT
2012 Presidential election: media event Presidential TV debate (Candidates Abu al Futuh & Amr Mussa) Election (round 1)
Egyptian public opinion (2011 revolution - 2013 coup d’état) • Youth unemployment • Corruption • Relationship with Israel • Army’s involvement in public affairs • Application of Islamic law • Post-revolutionary Constitution • Liberal opposition leaders • Conservative parties (Islamic bloc) • Youth movements • Protestors and activists • Militaries Constant: Political Issues Variable: Political actors
The EgyptianSearch Agenda • Controversialpoliticalofficials reachhigher SV • SV for Egyptian martyrs = SV minorpoliticalstakeholders • SV of famousactivists ≥ SV of major politicalstakeholders
Conclusion • Political action ratherthanpoliticalideology • Decreasinginterest for traditionalpolitical structures • Emergingpolitical leaders active online and likely to influence search agenda • Potentialframework for fluiddemocarcy