Step 1: Based on the concepts we have covered throughout this unit, post at least two key theories or practices that:challenged your views on social media publicsframed how you might approach researching social media publics in the future.

Step 1: Two key theories that challenged my views on social media publics are the "Networked Publics Theory" and the "Spiral of Silence Theory".

The Networked Publics Theory, which suggests that social media creates new public spaces for interaction and communication, challenged my previous belief that social media was just a tool for personal communication. It made me realize that social media platforms are not just tools, but spaces where public discourse and interaction occur.

The Spiral of Silence Theory, on the other hand, challenged my view that social media is a platform where everyone has an equal voice. This theory suggests that people are less likely to voice their opinions on social media if they believe they are in the minority, leading to a spiral of silence. This made me realize that social media can also contribute to the silencing of minority voices.

In terms of researching social media publics in the future, these theories have framed my approach in two ways. First, I would consider social media not just as a tool, but as a space for public interaction and discourse. This means looking at how people interact with each other on these platforms, not just how they use them. Second, I would consider the power dynamics at play on social media platforms, such as how majority opinions can silence minority voices. This means paying attention to not just what is being said, but also what is not being said, and why.