Slacktivism

Slacktivism is a term popularized during the Covid-19 pandemic that is a contraction of the words “activism and “slacking.” It describes the act of performing a simple act like liking, sharing, or signing an online petition as a form of activism. For example, liking a post about humanitarian efforts in a third world country then sharing it on your own social media platform would be considered slacktivism. It is widely debated whether these actions, though well intentioned, are arbitrary and useless. Those who disagree with it say that supporting a cause virtually does not produce any tangible positive effects for the cause. There is an ideology that one must “put their money where their mouth is” before claiming to have done something for the greater good, therefore discrediting simple, online actions as a form of activism. However, many people think that slacktivism can provide real change, and more people can be reached through it because it creates more exposure. More exposure creates more people learning about and donating to the cause. An example of this is the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge which took the internet by storm in 2014. The exposure generated from this ended in many donations, with especially large donations from celebrities. It ended up raising $220 million worldwide, which ultimately had tangible benefits. 

Online activism is beneficial if it eventually produces real and tangible results through in person action or raising money. It is a beneficial tool, but should not be the extent of our activism. Social media is powerful because it can galvanize an audience and lead them to real activism. By spreading awareness on social media, a large array of people from diverse locations and backgrounds can all align themselves with the purpose of a social cause. Learning about something on social media can create groups of inspired people and create a strong base for moving a project into physical action. Slacktivism can remind people and encourage them to show up to marches, donate, and speak up to powerful individuals and groups. It should be taken into account that slacktivism is simply a first step and a tool to real activism.