The impact of social media on the Arab uprisings

Did social media facilitate and sustain contentious politics during the Arab uprisings? Many have speculated about this but it remains difficult to distinguish fact from hype. To examine these issues, Part I establishes the theoretical framework. This chapter theorizes that social media could potentially have four functions for mass uprisings: informational (spreading knowledge, awareness, and news), networking (coordinating collective actions and organizing movements), cultural (strengthening democratic aspirations and critical evaluations of regime performance) and behavioral (reinforcing the propensity for citizens to engage in protest acts challenging the regime). Part II outlines the survey evidence used to analyze the impact of social media in several diverse states in the Arab region. Data is drawn from representative surveys conducted by Zogby Research Services in September 2011, the Pew Global Attitudes Project surveys in spring 2010 and spring 2011, as well as the 2005‐8 wave of the World Values Survey. Part III examines this evidence to determine the functions of social media. The conclusion summarizes the key results and considers their implications

The Outburst of the "Sinking Block"

Recent protests by four thousand Copts from garbage collectors in Manshiyet Nasser against social and class injustices, primarily fueled by the tragic events at the Saints Church in Alexandria.

Jerusalem is a city of peace, and of war as well.

The Church and the Nile

Discusses the historical role of the Coptic Church in Egypt's relations with Nubia and Ethiopia regarding Nile water issues, highlighting the potential political implications.

Al-Jabarti: The Historian of the 18th Century Egypt

This text discusses the contributions of Abd al-Rahman al-Jabarti as a major historian of 18th century Egypt, focusing on his methodology and the societal values reflected in his writings.

Health Conditions in Egypt During World War II

An analysis of how the health situation in Egypt deteriorated during World War II, focusing on the spread of diseases such as typhus and malaria, and the government's response, including efforts by civic organizations.

The Price of Israel

A book by journalist Alfred Lilienthal published in 1953, discussing the implications of Israel's establishment and the consequences faced by Palestinians and Jews.

The Elephant Clock: A Marvel of Medieval Engineering

This article discusses the Elephant Clock, designed by the famous medieval Muslim engineer Al-Jazari. It highlights its unique design, historical significance, and the ongoing educational initiatives to honor contributions of Muslim scholars to science and culture.

أخلاق الحداثة

The author discusses the concept of renaissance as not merely a political or economic victory but as a comprehensive elevation of society. The necessity for modern ethical values to achieve this renaissance is emphasized.

Sectarian Strife: A Tragedy of the Elite

This article discusses the social structures and networks within the Egyptian society, focusing on the relationships between Muslims and Copts, highlighting the importance of social bridges between different societal groups.

Sectarian Strife and Stereotypes

This text discusses the historical context of sectarian strife in Egypt, particularly since the 1952 revolution, and critiques the societal responses to this issue, emphasizing the importance of cultural awareness.

Facing the Religious Controversy

The ongoing religious debate is a recent phase of sectarian strife in Egypt, fueled by ignorance and incited by media.

Confronting Religious Discourse

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Obama and the Nobel Prize for Hope

The ongoing debate about whether Obama deserves the Nobel Peace Prize raises questions about the criteria for awarding it, highlighting the prize's complexities in acknowledging political actions rather than merely past achievements.

Religion and Social Capital

The concept of 'social capital' has evolved significantly since its inception, particularly highlighted in the context of sociology and its relationship with both community and religion.

Saint Augustin

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أزمة الهوية في مصر

Understanding the Identity and Character of Egypt

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Cairo Minarets: A Fusion of Gothic and Islamic Architecture

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The Minaret: A Symbol of Islamic Architecture

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Abdel Rahman Al-Jabarti: A Major Historian of 18th Century Egypt

Abdel Rahman Al-Jabarti is considered the most important historian of Egypt in the 18th century, with a strong belief that his father was one of the most significant scholars of his time.

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The article discusses the outbreak of malignant malaria in Upper Egypt, presenting its origins, government responses, and social implications during World War II, particularly between 1942 and 1944.

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The Coptic Church As An Apostolic Church

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ميمر لمار يعقوب السروجي عن الحلف والكذب

A treatise discussing the moral implications of oaths and lying based on biblical teachings, attributed to Saint Jacob of Serugh.

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From New York to Maghagha: Parallel Events in Religious Architecture

A comparison of religious tolerance and intolerance illustrated by the contrasting events surrounding mosque construction in New York and church construction in Maghagha, Egypt.

The Threat of Sectarian Violence in Egypt

An analysis of the recurring patterns of sectarian violence in Egypt and the societal responses, highlighting the failure of elites and institutions to address the issues.