Logics and orientations of digital activism. Froom use and appropriation to the development of autonomous tools

Abstract

Introduction: The text departs from a theoretical review to distinguish two specific dynamics involv-ing the use of commercial tools by activists on the one hand, and the development of autonomous technologies driven by social movements themselves on the other. Objectives: The objective of this article is to define various logics of digital activism by engaging critically with several scholarly contributions that, generally through a historical analysis, allow us to establish theoretical distinctions and recognize differentiated logics of action when it comes to determining how social movements actually use digital technology. In the paper, critical engagement with the literature is examined against our empirical findings to challenge pre-existing assumptions, as well as evolutionary approaches some-times observed in some of these contributions. The text also makes a point of transcending closed historical stages. Conclusions: The article’s conclusions point towards a multidimensionality of factors (pragmatic-utilitarian, strategic-tactical, and ideological/identity-related) regulating how social movements leverage technology.