Evgeny Morozov studies online activism and its effect.

These notes are taken from his TED talk which I found at http://www.ted.com/pages/view/id/391

He cites a study which showed that people join facebook groups without verifying information and usually do so as a way to define their own identity.

Blending of narcissism and activism= slactivism, blending of feel good activities which make us feel important  but have little practical impact and social significance

This may keep us from participating in more effective ways.