(Bio)social collectives and social media: Acid attack survivors in India

Abstract

With the increase in social media usage in contemporary times, there is formation of new collectives and identities. Social media had been trending due to its influence and reach in the community creating a space for the ‘voice’ for many disadvantaged groups. With the help of Paul Rabinow’s concept of biosocialities, this study had identified certain collectives and their networks of acid attack survivors. In-depth interviews were conducted with survivors, civil society members and surgeons. Narrative analysis was done to understand the negotiations of survivors for their self and to form their collectives such as advocacy groups, interest from international communities and advancements in medical techniques.