Digital Politics & Butterfly Effect Esplorazione della Digitalizzazione e del cambiamento indotto dai Social Network in Politica

The advent of social media and the process of digitalization have brought about significant transformations across various aspects of human existence, including the political landscape, resulting in profound changes from numerous perspectives. Social media platforms have introduced new interpersonal and communication dynamics, creating spaces for political interaction and participation. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in understanding how social networks influence political processes and indicate noteworthy shifts. This study aims to explore the aforementioned sequence and introduce the butterfly effect in the context of digitalization and social media in politics. The analysis is based on a review of existing literature and a case study of Josi Della Ragione, the mayor of Bacoli, which highlights the interconnection between the use of social media and its effects on individual political behavior, electoral dynamics, political participation, and the formation of public opinion. By applying theoretical models, the complex dynamics that emerge from the interaction between digitalization, social media, and politics are explored. The results indicate that a single action or event online can trigger a series of unforeseen and far-reaching changes in the political landscape. For instance, a single viral message that resonates within virtual communities can influence public opinion, driving a substantial number of individuals to support a particular cause or candidate. In conclusion, the era of digitalization and social media has opened new opportunities and challenges for politics, and understanding its mechanisms can help guide effective policies and strategies to maximize benefits and mitigate risks.