The Impact of Digital Technology on Shaping Public Opinion Trends: A Cross-Cultural Study
Ahmed Ali Albashir ( Sudan polling center- spsc) - Sudan
Keywords: Public opinion, digital technology, social media, cultural differences, comparative analysis.
Abstract
Abstract
This study investigates the role of digital technology, particularly social media platforms, in shaping public opinion trends across diverse cultural contexts. The research aims to understand how these technologies influence individuals’ political and social views, with a specific focus on the cultural variations that contribute to differences in public opinion. Digital technology, especially platforms like Facebook, Twitter (X), and Instagram, has become a pivotal force in shaping public discourse. However, the impact of these platforms is not uniform across cultures, highlighting a critical area of inquiry in public opinion research.
Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative analysis of digital content with qualitative methods. Data is collected from two culturally distinct regions—one in the West and another in the East—to examine the use of digital platforms in influencing public opinion within these differing contexts. Methodological tools include online surveys, social media data analysis, and user interviews to explore the cultural nuances in the interaction between digital technology and public opinion formation. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the cross-cultural dynamics of digital technology’s influence on societal views and public discourse.