When it comes to "slacktivism" I'm about as cynical as they come.
I generally roll my eyes and scoff at "for every tweet/like this get's [BIG CORPORATION] will donate 5¢!" or "Wear this [TRINKET] to show awareness!" type activities.
My general reason for this is that quite often the "engagement" generated by such activities (see: Movember parties) ends up over shadowing the cause itself. Basically lots of people talking the talk of "supporting a good cause" without the actual follow through.
But, having said all that, the Icebucket Challenge feels different.
Yes, there's an entertainment aspect of it, but by personalizing the challenge "I nominate [X]!" it's really putting the onus on others to take part. I choose to believe most (or at least many) of the folks taking the time to make a video are also making a donation.
The numbers like this suggest this is at least partially true:
Quote:
@seankjensen
The @alsassociation announced $22.9 million in donations compared to $1.9 million during same time period last year.
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There's nothing wrong with making an engaging game out of donating to charities, but there's a balance between raising funds & entertaining people. It appears the Icebucket Challenge has hit the sweet spot.
TL:dr: Slacktivism bad (in my opinion), Icebucket Challenge doesn't fit the criteria for it.