Glossary

This glossary defines the core vocabulary we use across Modern Politics. Terms are grouped alphabetically for quick reference.

A–C

• Algorithmic Amplification — The process by which platform ranking systems boost or suppress content visibility based on engagement metrics, personalization signals, or policy rules.
• Astroturfing — Coordinated campaigns designed to mimic grassroots activism while masking the identity of the true sponsor.
• Content Moderation — The policies, processes, and technical tools platforms use to enforce community standards and legal requirements.

D–F

• Disinformation — False or misleading information created and disseminated with the intent to deceive or cause harm.
• Dark Social — Peer-to-peer sharing channels (messaging apps, email forwards, small-group chats) that are difficult to monitor or measure but influence political discourse.
• Federated Platforms — Social networks built on interoperable protocols allowing independently hosted servers to communicate, such as Mastodon (ActivityPub) or Matrix.

G–L

• Graph Visualization — A technique for mapping relationships between entities such as people, movements, or events. Used in our Network tool.
• Influence Operation — Coordinated efforts by state or non-state actors to manipulate public opinion, often combining social media tactics with traditional propaganda.
• Lexicon Hacking — Strategic attempts to redefine common language or hashtags to shift narratives within online communities.

M–R

• Microtargeting — Delivering tailored political messages to specific demographic or behavioral segments based on data-driven profiles.
• Platform Governance — The combination of policies, enforcement mechanisms, and community norms that regulate behavior on a digital service.
• Rapid Response — Agile communication strategies deployed by campaigns or activists to address breaking news cycles in minutes or hours.

S–Z

• Sockpuppet Account — A false identity created to manipulate discussions or fabricate consensus.
• Surveillance Capitalism — An economic model where companies collect and monetize behavioral data, often influencing political advertising ecosystems.
• Zero-Rating — The practice of exempting certain online services from data caps, sometimes used to privilege specific political information channels.