Facebook politics. (c2012)

Abstract

The concept of social networks is undoubtedly entangled with globalization. The term network can simply be defined as a set of unified nodes which has contributed greatly in creating social associations in the current world. The ties established from the users of these websites are normally very strong that it is hard for one to miss an account. Social networks are immensely contributing towards globalization by connecting people with one another, who would otherwise not have known each other. The diffusion of culture or national identity through social-networking has been facilitated by people’s desire to utilize such diverse tools in communicating and collaborating in a global organizational framework. In turn, the empowerment of such innovative technologies provide a framework for inter-state social networking to help crowd-cooperation excavate individuals supporting organizations such as political parties engaging in political trans-national relations and activities. This research develops a framework that draws the political boundaries of globalization to argue that online social space can create and maintain social and political ties among members of a community. Examples will be provided to show how social networking can foster better assimilation to the culture an individual belongs to, even if he/she is not physically at the same location where his/her community of origin resides. Focusing on trans-nationalism and the use of inter-state social networking to assist engage in international relations and activities, this thesis discusses issues such as the impact of de-territorialisation on identity and political practice of Lebanese in Diaspora.