The Phenomenon of WhatsApp Group and The Formation of a New Political Identity

Abstract

This paper examines the widespread phenomenon of the use of WhatsApp groups and their relevance in forming a new political identity. Identity of political populism that has been rife all this time could be due to the massive role of the spread and ideological movements in WhatsApp groups. This study uses a phenomenological approach with the type of qualitative research. The findings in this study include that WhatsApp groups are considered as the most strategic media in spreading certain ideologies. The pattern used is like, creating a group and then inviting people to join the group. In the group there are administrators and political and ideological patrons who are usually heard and influential. This method is considered as a substitute for conventional models such as making halaqah face to face or cadre models of members that have been around. Compared to other social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Line, etc., WhatsApp is more familiar in all circles than other social media. WhatsApp is considered a very strategic place in spreading certain ideological messages, including influencing the character and mindset, especially members of the group. This follows a trend of spreading hoax, political interests and certain ideologies that are increasingly mushrooming in text messaging applications