The Power of TikTok

Engaging and using social media is an incredibly ingrained aspect of many peoples lives, myself included. Social media platforms have also evolved to be influential outlets for people to find political information, especially for younger generations. One platform in particular has gotten notable traction: TikTok. 

According to Andrade (2023), research has shown that 40% of younger individuals gravitate toward using TikTok and Instagram to keep updated and informed with information rather than using traditional search engines like Google to look up information. 

One of the most appealing aspects of TikTok involves a function called "stitches" that allows users to directly stitch themselves to videos that they want to comment on, whether it be because they want to promote another user's message or debunk it. Many believe that TikTok's usability allows young individuals to explore political information more organically, interacting with the information on their own terms while physically interacting with other videos. Research has also found that verbal information "conveyed over video can be more believable than text—and TikTok creators capitalize on that" (Andrade, 2023). 

After reviewing the multiple personal anecdotes from TikTok creators and users found in Andrade's article, many of these users agree that TikTok is a great platform for people to review information, reach large audiences, and stay updated with the newest political news. However, TikTok user Mowrey explained that, as entertaining and informative TikTok can be, it is important to "take everything with a grain of salt" (Andrade). Research has emphasized that nearly 20 percent of videos that appeared on searches for “prominent news topics” contained demonstrable misinformation," so it is imperative that people do their own research, as anyone can paint themselves as a credible figure for information (Andrade). 

It seems that as technology roots itself deeper into society, TikTok's influence will only increase and its impact on poltics will continue to develop. Not only is it an entertaining source for people to laugh and seek inspiration, it is a great way for people to connect politically and get more involved in elections. However, it is important to be mindful that misinformation can exist even in your most favorite platforms and proceeding with caution is important to not spread false narratives. 

Sources:
Andrade, S. (2023). The growing political power of TikTok. The Nation. https://www.thenation.com/article/politics/tiktok-election-gen-z-voters