14. On participatory politics as a game changer and the politics of participation

Abstract

In this chapter, the revolutionary impact of digital technology on society is unpacked and critically assessed. Bunz asks how digital media can facilitate the increased participation of citizens, but can at the same time be used as a means for diffusion that is far less radical in its political outcomes. The idea of playfully ‘hacking politics’ may help to turn political problems into challenges that can be resolved through public participation, but advocating participation can just as easily change into the contracting out of state responsibilities onto citizens. As is argued in this chapter, citizens’ participation does not necessarily allow for radical transformation and often does not offer enough tension and discussion to kickstart societal changes.