Hints That Web 2.0 May Alter Long-Standing Patterns of Civic Engagement Based on Socioeconomic Status According to Pew Internet Survey

"Contrary to the hopes of some advocates," writes the authors of the Pew Internet's September 2009 survey findings in The Internet and Civic Engagement, "the internet is not changing the socioeconomic character of civic engagement in America." Higher income, higher educated citizens are more likely than the less well off to participate in online political activities. However, "there are hints that forms of civic engagement anchored in blogs and social networking sites could alter long-standing patterns that are based on socioeconomic status." [JH]