Alternative media in a digital era: Comparing news and information use among activists in the United States and Latin America

Abstract

As activists increasingly use the Internet to bypass traditional media gatekeepers, disseminate their own messages, and mobilize protests, this study explores how activists in the United States and Latin America view activism in relation to mainstream and alternative media, particularly online media. Results from a quantitative and qualitative survey show activists distrust mainstream, corporate media and most frequently get their news online. Also, despite the digital divide and concerns about corporate control of the Internet, activists were positive about the role of the Internet as an alternative public space for staying informed and for waging activism. © 2013 Communication&Society/Comunicación y Sociedad.