Your “tipping point” argument does a great job of justifying the thesis you intend to explore; in other words, your mention that the intersection between the internet and political participation is important now based on technologies popularized within the last 18 months explains why this thesis ought to be researched and written.

At one point, you seem to offer a hypothesis that these new technologies will shift participation away from a physical, “local interaction” into an “ideologically local experience.” I interpreted this to mean political participation while towards an experience that is wholly online and based on political ideology, rather than physical proximity. I think this is a very interesting point, and one that I’ve heard scholars such as Cass Sunstein predict (and critique the implications therein.) I’d recommend checking that out. Overall, great job; I’m looking forward to reading more!

This is a great way of laying out your arguments with the embedded links and whatnot. The fact someone has already responded to your Lit. Review and initiated a dialogue speaks volumes about what you are trying to do here.
I liked the comment posted here because it gets to important big questions for your thesis. During your analysis of the works you hope to use you state, “What none of these authors do is expressly discuss the political potentials of these new technologies.” I think this is where you will take the thesis yes? Here in the review of literature you might be able to pose big questions which locate your thesis work in the context of academic discussions currently taking place. You don’t have to answer these or even address them in depth, but posing a couple may demonstrate what it is about your thesis that will make it a necessary addition to the conversation.

Here are a few questions for your consideration as you move on and begin thinking about your hypothesis and direction for this work:

How do you foresee these new technologies shaping political participation? Can you speak to what types of communication will take place with these new formats? Aka the conversations could be lengthy and high on content which would produce informed citizens capable of critical thought. Or the flip side could be a new world of pseudo-dialogue with 140 character max discussions? What are the dangers that come with these technologies?

Overall this is a great start and I look forward to seeing the progression.

Suerte

Paul De Barros

I hope to more fully answer you’re question with my thesis in the Spring but suffice it to say that I think technology could potentially have huge benefits in future elections if utilized properly. The drawbacks will certainly need to be explored as well. Thanks for reading.