Life in Activism Memo #5: The Four Ages of Going Viral
Much has changed since the turn of the century
During my over 20 years in politics, working on the political activism and organizing side of things, I have been fortunate to also have been connected to cutting edge political publishing—first during my blogging days at MyDD and Open Left, then during my 14 years at Daily Kos, and now with Wolves and Sheep over here at Substack. This experience has provided me with a backstage pass perspective on the changing nature of online political activism, and on how independent, progressive publishing has evolved since the turn of the century.
The most fascinating aspect of online publishing that I want to share with you is how going viral has changed during the past 20 years. Being able to watch this happen, often in the room where it happens, has been a real privilege.
I have divided the past 20 years of going viral into four ages: 1) the age of blogging; 2) the age of Facebook; 3) the rise of bad actors; and 4) the pivot to video. Below the break, for paid subscribers, I offer a quick overview of all four ages.
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