Battling over Social Media: Public Protest and State Responses to Dr Li Wenliang’s Death in China

Abstract

This article discusses the state and public reactions on the internet to the death of Dr Li Wenliang, the whistle-blower who warned of the COVID-19 outbreak in China. Contrary to findings in existing literature, this study argues that the society–state interaction over the internet is far more dynamic and complex, and that autocratic states have the capability and resilience to manage and even control the internet. While the internet could help rally waves of public outpourings and protests, the state, in response, broadcast its tactical concessions to ease widespread public anger. However, the state has been able to portray its overall highly effective control of the epidemic, thereby claiming political credits and legitimacy for governance.