The potency of digital media: group chats and mediated scandals in the Philippines

Abstract

With widespread use of digital media, public figures and ordinary people easily become involved in scandals. Social media leaks and mobs illustrate how digital media figure into scandals in the context of everyday politics. The occurrence of scandals on digital media prompts questions on emerging dynamics and potentials of digital communication. Using case studies from the Philippines, this study identifies and examines digital media affordances and how they enable mediated scandals. Findings indicate that digital media facilitate the process and intensify the impact of scandals, particularly the effects of public condemnation. However, under certain conditions, digital media enable parties to counter allegations and mobilise support. The article reflects on the possibilities and potency of digital media in everyday politics of reputation.