“Netroots” is grassroots political activism organized through blogs and other online social media.
Netroots activism emerged as a powerful force in U.S. politics during the 2000s, harnessing the potential of the internet to mobilize like-minded individuals, raise awareness, and exert influence on the political landscape.
Origin of “Netroots”
The term was coined by Jerome Armstrong and is used in his 2006 book co-authored with Markos Moulitsas, Crashing the Gate: Netroots, Grassroots, and the Rise of People-Powered Politics.
The authors note:
The netroots activist, much like the new generation of grassroots activist, is fiercely partisan, fiercely multi-issue, and focused on building a broader movement.
It’s not an ideological movement — there is actually very little, issue-wise, that unites most modern party activists except, perhaps opposition to the Iraq war.
Netroots activists leverage digital platforms to engage in political discourse, express opinions, and share information.
Through blogs, social media, and online forums, they create a virtual community that transcends geographical boundaries and enables individuals to connect, collaborate, and amplify their voices.
Netroots participants often identify with progressive or liberal ideologies, though the movement encompasses a wide range of issues and perspectives.
The rise of netroots activism was fueled by several factors.
The advent of user-friendly blogging platforms and the democratization of online publishing allowed individuals to express their views and contribute to political discussions without relying on traditional media outlets.
Social media platforms further enhanced the reach and impact of netroots activism, enabling rapid information sharing and facilitating the organization of collective action.
Use of “Netroots” in a sentence
- The netroots movement rallied together online, using blogs and social media platforms to amplify their voices and advocate for progressive policies on issues like climate change and social justice.
- Through their extensive online presence and coordinated efforts, netroots activists successfully raised funds for candidates aligned with their values, helping to fuel their campaigns and challenge establishment politics.
- Netroots activism has proven instrumental in bringing attention to underreported issues and mobilizing grassroots movements, serving as a powerful force for change in the realm of progressive politics.