The internet and civic engagement

Whether they take place on the internet or off, traditional political activities remain the domain of those with high levels of income and education. That has to do with internet access and affordability. There are hints that forms of civic engagement anchored in blogs and social networking sites could alter long standing patterns that are based on socioeconomic status. In August 2008 33% of internet users have social networking profiles. Those who use blogs and social networking sites as an outlet for civic engagement are far more active in traditional realms of political and nonpolitical participation than are other internet users.

www.pewinternet.org