The dark side of e-petitions? Exploring anonymous signatures

Authors

  • Janne Berg Ã…bo Akademi University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v22i2.6001

Keywords:

e-petitions, online petitions, political participation, anonymity, political communication, informal petition platform

Abstract

This paper analyzes anonymous political participation in the form of e-petition signing. The purpose of this study is to increase knowledge about patterns behind anonymous e-petition signing. Since online political participation evokes an important discussion about the balance between the need for transparency on the one hand, and the right for anonymity on the other hand, it is crucial to increase our knowledge of the factors affecting citizens’ choices to remain anonymous. Using quantitative content analysis of 220 informal e-petitions on the site adressit.com in Finland, this study seeks to find possible determinants for the share of anonymous signatures. Findings indicate that the type of demand presented in the e-petition is a key factor predicting the share of anonymous signatures.

Author Biography

Janne Berg, Ã…bo Akademi University

Department of Political Science, Ph.D. student.

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Published

2017-01-20

How to Cite

Berg, J. (2017). The dark side of e-petitions? Exploring anonymous signatures. First Monday, 22(2). https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v22i2.6001