Freedom in the Feed: Social Media Use and Attitudes Toward Freedom of Speech
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Sociology
Minor
International Studies
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Diane Nititham
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Social media has become increasingly influential in political communication and expression. With that, we can analyze the impact on attitudes toward freedom of speech, though it remains heavily understudied through a sociological framework. Underlining a combination of conflict theory and symbolic interaction theory, this study draws on theories such as media system dependency, selective exposure, the spillover effect, and the paradox of choice to understand the implications of social media use on perspectives of freedom of speech. A secondary analysis of the 2021 General Social Survey data is first examined to highlight the potential correlation between the variables. Further quantitative and qualitative methods of survey and interview data are conducted and explored to find precise connections. Understanding this relationship is essential in the field of sociology as reliance on social media increases, and in understanding public perceptions of democratic norms and values.
Fall Scholars Week 2025
Political Science and Sociology Department Panel
Spring Scholars Week 2026
Political Science and Sociology Department Panel
Freedom in the Feed: Social Media Use and Attitudes Toward Freedom of Speech
Social media has become increasingly influential in political communication and expression. With that, we can analyze the impact on attitudes toward freedom of speech, though it remains heavily understudied through a sociological framework. Underlining a combination of conflict theory and symbolic interaction theory, this study draws on theories such as media system dependency, selective exposure, the spillover effect, and the paradox of choice to understand the implications of social media use on perspectives of freedom of speech. A secondary analysis of the 2021 General Social Survey data is first examined to highlight the potential correlation between the variables. Further quantitative and qualitative methods of survey and interview data are conducted and explored to find precise connections. Understanding this relationship is essential in the field of sociology as reliance on social media increases, and in understanding public perceptions of democratic norms and values.