Quote:
Originally Posted by Cowperson
In this case, the coming weeks will see the truth or fiction of that. As I said, its nice to spread to a bunch of different locations and get the local vocal minority out . . . . . but you'll need to inspire thousands and tens of thousands - in each of those locations - to visibly join you before it would look convincing.
|
I don't disagree with you on this point, but if people have the chance to contribute to a cause without getting off their butts they'll do it. Online petitions, for example, are one of those very examples that can have a mass effect if necessary.
When you think about it, the number of subscribers on a Twitter feed, or the number of "Likes" on a Facebook page are (in some ways) a form of online petition. Corporations are susceptible to these. A "social media backlash" can drive corporate strategy, such as happened with the GAP, Nivea, BP, Kia Motors, even Bank of America's debit card fees drew significant ire. Many companies have had to reverse policies or change tactics due to online disapproval and protest.
For actual, physical protests, then yes - feet on the ground matter, and in large quantities. However, visibility in the sense I think you're using it isn't a pre-requisite to drive change. At least not in the Information Age.