CITIZEN INTERFACE DYNAMICS: CONNECTING POLITICAL DISCUSSION AND NEWS CONSUMPTION IN TODAY'S PUBLIC SPHERE

Abstract

The Internet's expansive and transformative presence within politically relevant discourse spaces, such as news platforms and political forums, has reignited discussions on the structural dynamics of information dissemination and political engagement, and their consequences for citizens. Drawing inspiration from the concept of the "classic public sphere," which underscores the importance of a robust structural and institutional foundation for deliberative democracy, this study investigates the role of Internet usage in shaping the accessibility and connectivity of the modern public sphere. We explore how Internet use influences citizens' access to information and their ability to seamlessly transition between news consumption and political discourse. By delving into these dynamics, we aim to shed light on the evolving landscape of political engagement in the digital era.