Additionally , the aim of this paper is to analyze the multifaced relationship between solidarity movements and socialmedia , with a specific focuson the Friday for Future movement .
For this purpose , the term paperis structured as follows . First , a general overviewof solidarity movements within a definition and the influence of social media within these movements will be given . This is followedby the presentation of the Fridays for Future movement . With a first focus on the origins and evolution of this movement , the aim is to establish the link between social media and Fridays for Future , and then to explain its specific role . In reference to this , examples from two social media platforms are shown . The paper concludes with a discussion and conclusion .
Through this comprehensive analysis the aim is to gain insights into the dynamics of social media and its role in shapingcontemporary solidarity movements . By examining campaignsof the Fridays for Futuremovement in socialmedia , it shouldcontribute to a deeper understanding of the potential of digital platforms in the pursuit of societal change .
Solidarity movements generally represent a fundamental aspect of societal dynamics , within addressing systemic injustices and advocation for a positive change . As already mentioned , those movements have indeed become increasingly significant , particularly in the era of digitalization . However , before explaining in depth the connection of these movements , exemplified by
Definition
When examining the definition of solidaritymovements , it is important firstto analyze the term solidarity in general . The notion of solidarity “[…] often denotes a movement ’ s ‘ spirit ’ […], which represents “ the organizing of feeling on behalf of the movement ” ( Hunt & Benford , 2004 , as cited in Stewart & Schultze , 2019 , p . 1 ). Therefore , it is necessary to analyze this term . On the other hand , “ this implies that solidarity is accomplished when emotions […] that are experienced at the individual level are made collective ” ( Stewart & Schultze , 2019 , p . 1 ). In addition to this emotional connection , “[…] solidarity also represents a set of norms that oblige an individual to care about certain others , especially member of the in-group ” ( Dean , 1996 , as cited in , Stewart & Schultze , 2019 , p . 2 ). This means that solidarity , in its manifestation towards a particular group or case , centrally influences the movement and provides it with a collective identity .
Solidarity movements can already be traced back far to their original form as a part of social movements . Therefore , they build “[…] upon specific culturaland symbolic resources ” ( Passy , 2001 , p . 8 ). As a “[…] main grievance that underlies its mobilization […]” human right violations can be seen ( ibid ). Additionally , the movementin general was already influenced by the Christian cosmology and the idea of helpingone ’ s neighbors as well as “ from the humanistic component […] [ within ] […] the respect of human rights and individual freedom ” and on the concept of socialmovements by the “[…] idealof a more just and egalitarian society ”( ibid , pp . 8-9 ).
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