Being a Citizen Online

Abstract

This study compares the impact of various types of traditional and Web-based forms of communication on political efficacy, knowledge, and participation. Findings suggest that the role of the Internet in promoting citizenship is limited. In fact, respondents who used the Web frequently for entertainment purposes were less likely to feel efficacious about their potential role in the democratic process and also knew less about facts relevant to current events. Regardless of the frequency with which people used the Internet for various informational or entertainment purposes, these analyses suggest that traditional mass media maintain a key role in promoting democratic citizenship.