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Fighting air pollution in China with social media

Researchers found that online activism did force the Chinese government to take some actions on air pollution, but corporate and government interests largely shaped the online discussion. The study shows both the power and limits of online activism in China, highlighting the need for more nuanced approaches to addressing complex social...

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Professional Geographer·DateDec 2, 2014

Report shows citizen-designed county redistricting worked

A California Lutheran University study found that citizen-designed redistricting in Ventura County led to fairer representation, with most incumbent supervisors re-elected based on their responsiveness to constituents. The new districts also strengthened support for environmental protections and liberal social policies.

SourceSAGE·JournalSAGE Open·DateJun 19, 2014

Raising an army of armchair activists?

A recent study on the Save Darfur Cause on Facebook found that only a small percentage of members donated or recruited others, despite the campaign's large online presence. Meanwhile, those who joined independently were more likely to engage in activism, highlighting the potential for individual actions to drive collective change.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalSociological Science·DateMar 4, 2014

Democrats may be hurt by anti-war divisions in 2008

Research suggests that anti-war activists are divided between supporting the Democratic Party and others, potentially complicating their electoral prospects. The study found that grassroots activists support the Democrats at a rate of around 40%, while non-Democratic activists work with organizations like United for Peace and Justice.

SourceSAGE·JournalAmerican Politics Research·DateJul 13, 2007

Nano world off the radar for most

Despite significant research and development, nanotechnology remains largely unknown to the general public due to a lack of critical analysis and debate in popular media. Social scientists are underrepresented in nanotechnology studies, while some activists fear its potential risks without acknowledging its benefits.

SourcePenn State·JournalFutures·DateJan 22, 2007

Prof makes case for 'precious' metals

Dr. Jeremy Richards proposes setting uniform royalty rates for metal producers to account for extraction costs, which could lead to increased revenue for governments and reduced environmental impact. He also envisions a system of product ownership and recycling to promote social equity and sustainable development.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateFeb 23, 2006

Anti-consumerism activism

Researchers Robert Kozinets and Jay Handelman apply social movement theories to anti-advertising movements, finding changes in activists' self-description and adversary portrayal. The authors conclude that activists view the consumption system as an enemy and try to save both themselves and consumers from it.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 7, 2005

Activism may help those with AIDS cope better with illness

Research suggests that social activism in groups like ACT UP can help individuals with AIDS and HIV cope better with their medical and psychological problems. Activist group members tend to use more problem-focused coping, have greater knowledge of treatment information sources, and are more integrated into support networks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateAug 7, 2002

Community activism helps curb homelessness

A recent study found that community activism has a positive impact on the lives of mentally ill homeless individuals. The research, which tracked over 2,500 participants in 18 US towns and cities, revealed that those living in areas with high levels of community engagement were more likely to achieve stable housing.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Services Research·DateAug 1, 2001